Choosing Dog Food by Reading the Dog Food Label

I think it is time to remind people of the importance of GOOD dog food.  Even though the commercials push the Purinas, the Iams, etc.. they really are not that good for your dog! Many common skin issues,lack of energy instances,etc.. can be caused by not getting dog food that is healthy.

http://hubpages.com/_2zgxhhdl2vixz/hub/Reading-Dog-Food-Labels

When a Dog's Jaw Locks on a Toy -- Or Worse!

Did you know that the pressure applied by the mouth of the average
dog is 150-200 pounds per square inch, and that 450 pounds 
of pressure is applied by some dog's mouth's? I didn't. Until yesterday.
 
  It was a normal morning at the park, and I was using my fetch-it to throw tennis ball bombs for my black lab/Sheppard mix, Chloe. She's usually single-minded and reliable during our game, and always manages to drop the ball between my legs without my having to touch the slobbery, icky black (was yellow) ball. And then she saw it: a bright orange training toy that another dog owner was using with her puppy 200 yards across the field from us. Apparently it called out to her, because he suddenly fled like a rocket in the direction of the toy, leaving me and my dumb fetch-it game behind.
 
Within seconds her jaws had locked on the poor puppy owner's training toy, and she was proudly prancing around with it. The puppy owner wasn't amused (the puppy was, though). When I finally caught up to them, the puppy owner was sternly yelling "Drop it," Chloe was running in large circles showing off with the toy, and I was standing still, calling Chloe, knowing that chasing her would be futile and embarrassing as well. I knew that once Chloe's jaw locked on something, we had a problem.
 
Many dog owners can probably relate. When a commanding "Drop it" alone doesn't work, then what?
  Well, there's the "trading technique," which works with many dogs, but not all. And not Chloe. Basically, you "trade" something with the dog; while saying "Drop it,'' you show him a nice, smelly piece of hot dog, or liver, or rawhide, and usually he'll drop the item he's been holding and take the treat instead. With some consistent practice, variety of treats, and lots of praise, eventually your dog will drop anything -- from a stranger's training toy to the neighbor's cat -- with a simple "Drop it." Theoretically, anyway.
 
Other methods? Well, sometimes your dog may have clenched onto something more than a toy -- such as a dangerous bone, another animal, or a human -- and there's no time for games. Dousing the dog with water, using a hose, a bucket, or even a bottle, often works to loosen their grip. But not always. I've heard stories of owners having to shoot the hose into their dog's mouth before he finally let go.
You could also try pinching the dog's snout, basically forcing him to hold his breath until he drops the object and can breathe again. It works sometimes. Again, not always.
Some pit bull owners carry around something called a "break stick" in case they need it to pry open their dog's jaws after it clamps down on an object, animal, or human being. Pit bull education websites recommend that owners carry a break stick in case their dog gets into a fight. I suppose a crow bar, hammer, or even a long screwdriver might work too in a dire situation.
  
Another method, which I've actually had to use while breaking up a major dog fight, is to jam a finger in the attacking dog's anus. Yes, it's gross, but it worked to unlock the large dog's jaws from the neck of the smaller dog, probably saving the smaller's dog's life. You do what you have to do. Ideally, of course, the "Drop it" trade game is the best and most reliable way to train a dog to let go of objects. But it does take practice. And patience. And time. And most of all, a bag of smelly, sticky, slimy, and delicious dog treats.

With Chloe? Well, the puppy's owner finally got fed up, left her training toy with us, and went home. (Yes, it was embarrassing.) I had given up too. I disappointingly walked toward my truck, angrily telling Chloe and my other dog, Lolly, that their playtime was over. When I got there, I turned around, and there was Chloe next to me, looking up with her huge brown eyes, panting heartily with her long tongue at rest. The training toy had been dropped at my feet.


Author-Janet Simmons Hayes   www.pawsiblegaytails.blogspot.com

Very Smart Dog!!

OUR DOGS CAN DO THIS --RIGHT!!
I wish :))
check out the link below-

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sj7h9zKhPeY

The Dog Lifeguard - The Newest Beach Lifeguard

The dog lifeguard is the newest addition to Italy's beach lifeguard posts. The Newfoundlands and Labradors that make up Italy's dog lifeguards are known historically to be strong swimmers, and the country's beaches are making use of their water prowess. There are more than 70 dogs in commission, and they work alongside their best friend, man (and woman of course!).

The dogs are trained specifically to look for signs of drowning. When a person, or multiple persons, need their help they spring into action. They are strong enough swimmers that up to three people can hang on to them as they are towed to shore. If a more dire situation arises, they are trained to grab on with their teeth and drag a person to shore.

The doggie lifeguards have proved their worth time and time again, and it looks like they are here to stay. Italy is not the only country to employ canine lifeguards. Scandinavian countries have used dogs in their efforts to save lives in the water for quite awhile. Other countries are now starting to take notice.

The dogs, that are trained from puppies until approximately two years of age, can also work alone, and for much less pay than their human counterparts. They are not looking to put their best friends out of business just yet as there are many areas where people swim and economics do not allow for a full time human lifeguard. The dogs can be especially valuable in these undeserved areas because of their ability to work solo.

I would not be the least bit surprised if no dogs allowed signs lining many of America's beaches were soon replaced with signs reading, "Dog Lifeguard On Duty!".

About The Author

Garett Flores is a pre-vet student and Cal Poly trained animal scientist employed as a veterinary assistant at a private small animal practice in Bakersfield, California. He has combined his love of animals and experience with computers to create a web page about animal husbandry and basic animal Pet Care for a variety of pets including but not limited to ferrets, lizards, snakes, turtles, rats, mice, and hamsters.

He also manages a Dog Breed site that serves as a reality based guard for pet owners looking to choose the right dog for their family.

Household Dog Dangers-a reminder for all of us...

Dogs have a tendency to chew just about everything they come across. Just like babies, they will smell it first before giving a more thorough examination in their mouths. In most cases, this causes only slight discomfort but swallowing indigestible substances can lead to serious complications..

It is a popular misconception that dogs eat bones. They don't. It is the meat around the bone and any marrow it contains which they are after. Bone is actually indigestible, and fragments which the dog swallows can become lodged in the gut.

There are several other things that can be dangerous enough to cause death to your dog if he or she ingests them.

What follows is not an extensive list by any means but includes items which people often overlook.

1. Antifreeze: Common antifreeze is responsible for a lot of pet deaths every year. It smells and tastes very sweet to dogs but then rat poisons smell nice to rodents; both have the same effect. When draining a car radiator to change the antifreeze, avoid the temptation of leaving it unattended or better yet, ensure no pets have access.
2. Chocolate: Chocolate contains a substance called the obromine which is toxic to dogs. Baking chocolate and dark chocolate is especially dangerous. People often like to reward their dog with a small piece of their chocolate and whilst a tiny bit will do them little harm, they are not doing their pet any favors
3. Pain Killers: The most common mild pain killers are Paracetamol or Aspirin based but there are many more with a higher strength available. However, as few as two regular strength tablets can kill a small dog.
4. Batteries: Watch batteries are tiny and contain lithium which can cause a potentially fatal ulceration in the stomach within 12 hours. Alkaline batteries are also toxic to dogs so always dispose of used batteries sensibly, safely and at once.
5. Moth Balls: Not as common as they used to be in households nevertheless moth balls are very dangerous to dogs. Their function is to kill moths which eat fabric and so contain an insecticide. If any pet ingests one it can cause central nervous system excitement and seizures.
6. Electrocution: All households have electrical appliances which require a cable to be plugged into a wall socket. The cables covered in a plastic insulation are often quite thick but a dog's teeth are no match for this and many young dogs die from being electrocuted, particularly in the holiday season from chewing through Christmas tree lights. Puppies will chew when teething but in general dogs will also chew out of boredom so give them something they can safely chew.
7. Household chemicals: All sorts of household detergents are toxic to dogs at one level or another, but fabric softeners fall into the highly toxic category as does mouthwash which often contains boric acid. Symptoms of poisoning include vomiting, drooling, seizures, and coma.
8. Household Plants: It may surprise you to learn that many common and popular household plants are highly toxic to dogs. A partial list of toxic plants includes poinsettias, lilies, ferns, devil's ivy, aloe, and ivy.

If you think your dog may have eaten any of these substances, or anything else that could poison him, call a vet immediately. It could save his or her life.

Noel Dundas is the author of several canine publications including the Canine First-Aid Handbook and The Canine Diabetes Management Guide.

http://www.CanineFirst-Aid.com

Top Ten Pet Friendly Cars!!!!!

Click on this link to see the top TEN cars for your pet!!


It is a short video that is very informative!!!!

Playing Music for Your Puppy (or Dog)

Hi,
I have found that playing music for all ages of dogs, as well as puppies, can help keep them calm while you are away from the house.
Karen :)

One of the biggest challenges of being a pet owner is what to do while you are out of the house and at work all day. Although leaving your new puppy is something you cannot avoid, it does not make it any easier to do. You miss your pet and worry about how they are doing alone. Your puppy also misses you because he is used to having you around. One of the best and easiest ways to fix this is to play puppy music. If you never have heard of this, it is soothing and calming music designed for pets.

The best puppy music you want to put on during the day has got to be anything soothing, such as classical music that features predominantly harps and pianos. You want to have slow music that does not have any large jumps in tempo because this could startle your puppy. To start using this training tactic, you could try playing the music while you are at home and playing with your puppy. This way they will associate the music with you, instead of loneliness. You can do this for a few days until you feel he is familiar with the music then try it when you leave.

Instead of feeling abandoned during the day, your puppy will be calm because of the puppy music you provided him. This type of music works great for all types of calming situations. Your problem might be that your puppy bites furniture only when you are gone. Another problem might be that your puppy will not stop barking when he is alone. The music will work to calm both of these problems. After a while, your puppy will not even notice that he is alone because the music keeps him entertained. This is so important for a puppy because you want him to feel as if your home is his home as well.

By listening to puppy music during the day, you might find that it is easier to leave your pup alone without feeling the need to cage him. This is what many owners have to do because they are not sure if their puppy is ready to be alone in the house all day. It makes it easier to do when they are calm and not feeling the need to tear apart the house. The music is such an easy way to calm your new puppy.

Sherry Harris is the author of a wide range of dog topics including, but not limited to: puppy music, dog insurance, puppy training, dog grooming, pet travel, dog training and much more. Hope you enjoyed this article. For hundreds of free dog articles visit http://www.DogStyleNetwork.com today. And remember, dog music is great to have around to help your dog relax. Also, many people turn puppy music on when they are not at home, so their puppy or dog feels calm. Click to order Puppy Music right now!

Old Dogs Have More Going For Them Then We Think

They may not have the cute factor which sell puppies and you never see them in pet shop windows, yet senior dogs have something else to those looking for love, loyalty and devotion. A dog over the age of 7 is considered a senior. While senior dogs have a certain charm, people are put off adopting them due to a belief that they need more veterinary attention, medication and care.

There is a perception old dogs are high maintenance. Compared to training puppies who whimper in the middle of the night and leave puddles on carpets, senior dogs have a lot going for them. The hard work is done, as older dogs are usually house broken. Senior dogs come with the benefit of life experience and understand simple commands like NO and are use to human rhythms.

The Senior Dogs Project aims to educate and encourage people to consider buying aged dogs. Instead of rushing straight to puppies. They praise these dogs for their ability to stay at home and not wander, they are more stable, more devoted and quiet. A spokesperson for the group said, "What you see is what you get with senior dogs. They settle in easily and know what it takes to get along with humans. They don't chew furniture and are still able to learn new tricks and behavior".

For those looking for couch potato dogs, then mature dogs are a great option. They still need exercise but at a slower pace. They are good for elderly people who need motivation to go for walks and often help people stay connected with the community.

There is also the feel good factor for the humans. By adopting an older dog you are giving it a life after some one else had given up on it. Shelter dogs are not all runaways or lost causes. Many end up there due to a change in the previous owners lifestyle. Many are still healthy and have been well looked after. Surrendered dogs are often stressed out in refuges and maybe timid and not as active in seeking attention and can be looked over. They maybe different once they get home and are more relaxed.

The lifespan of a dog depends on their breed, lifestyle, medical history and the care they receive. Mature dogs may need a little more vet care but any dog requires regular medical checks. Vet science has developed special diets, medication and exercise routines to suit elderly dogs. The Australian Veterinary Association recommends four ways to give aged dogs a good quality of life. They suggest matching exercise to meet their physical capabilities such as swimming for arthritic dogs and gentle, slower and smaller walks are still essential.

Mental stimulation is vital for delaying canine dementia. They can still benefit from toys and small food puzzle games with out being too physically taxing.

Regular vet checks can reduce the risk of small issues becoming major health problems. Your vet can also suggest specially designed dog food to match certain ailments. Tailored dog food can be expensive but the food may last longer then you think and can prevent more vet visits.

Teeth are essential to a dog's health. Dental decay can be painful and many dogs tend not to display this and continue eating regardless. Poor mouth hygiene will also cause bad breath and is a sign of declining health. If eating becomes too painful then the dog may reduce eating all together and miss out on vital nutrition at a time when they need it the most.

Of course there is the issue of their decline. Elderly dogs may not be with you as long as a puppy, but knowing the time with them is limited makes it all the more special. Dogs of any age can become sick or die early. Yet with proper care, diet and love you maybe extending a life of a dog that may not have had that long to live while waiting in a cage waiting for some one to come along.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gregory_Callow

Retractable Leashes - Useless and Dangerous!

It is amazing the number of people using retractable leashes. It is also amusing to watch how frustrated they get, because they have so little control over their dogs.

Actually, it is rather comical to watch even the smallest Chihuahuas and Yorkies drag their owners around. Then you have the ones with the Labs, Shepherds and other larger breeds, running behind their dogs, tripping over their flip-flops, arm stretched out, hollering for them to "STOP!"

"I can't get him to do what I say!" "He is always pulling me!"

Most fascinating though is the tangled mess the dogs manage to get themselves into! The owners look like fishermen untangling their lines. "Oh no! Look at the mess! I'll pass my dog through there; you pull yours under the loop."

Here is something to gnaw on - In 2007 there were over 16,000 hospital treated injuries related to leashes in the U.S. They included burns, broken bones, bites (trying to untangle dogs), cuts, eye injuries and amputations. You read correctly, amputations. That was just the human count. Every day, veterinarians treat dogs injured by leashes, most commonly retractable! They include the same types of injuries as human.

No doubt we'll be hearing from die-hard retractable leash aficionados, blustering about their military-style precision retractable leash techniques. Well, good for them!

However, if you are serious about obedience training your dog, if you are serious about having control of your dog; toss that silly thing out! Knowledgeable, experienced dog trainers do not allow retractable leashes when training a dog.

The retractable leash encourages your dog to pull. Your dog will learn quickly; by pulling you will let out more line. Therefore, your dog associates a tight collar/leash is the way they are suppose to walk...rather than loose leash walking.

Do yourself a huge favor; invest in a quality 6-foot leather leash. It is much easier to control your dog, when they are six feet away from you, than when they are in another county!

Karen A. Soukiasian, GOOD DOG! - DOG TRAINING - Owner/Trainer, St. Augustine, Florida - AKC CANINE GOOD CITIZEN Evaluator, http://www.freewebs.com/gooddogsite.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Karen_Soukiasian

A FREE Dog Life Saving Report

Please, if you feed your dog commercial dog food (bought at the supermarket or a wholesale club,etc..) please watch the video.

• The 'Secret' reason every dog, including yours, is now at risk of an early death!
• The greedy billion-dollar companies spending millions to keep the truth hidden from you!
• Why continuing with your current system of care will cut your dog's life short by up to 8.3years .
• The 3 quick & easy steps you MUST take today to prevent your dog's early, painful death.

Click to see a quick video which is very informative!!!
http://abde9annv5ihoxc4ua1zhguszp.hop.clickbank.net/

HELP HOMELESS ANIMALS!

Check out this website. Cool t-shirts etc...
http://www.imtiredonline.com/index.php/shop/details/5/Animal_Cruelty


Best Friends Animal Society operates the country's largest sanctuary for homeless animals and works globally with animal shelters and rescue groups to bring about a time when there will be no more homeless pets. Best Friends Animal Society website

Dogtown"
The cast of National Geographic Channel's "Dogtown," which takes place at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, has embraced our "I'm Tired of Animal Cruelty" bracelets. They recently did a photo shoot, wearing their bracelets with some of the 22 "Vicktory" dogs they rescued from former NFL Quarterback Michael Vick's abuse. Pictured below right is Manager of Dogtown, John Garcia, with Georgia. If you haven't seen "Dogtown," the new season premiered in March. Look for our bracelets on the cast in future episodes.

DO NOT Buy Dogs from storefront Pet Stores

What many pet dog window shoppers and serious buyers may not realize is that the cute, cuddly puppies they see in the pet store most likely came from a puppy mill. So, what exactly is a puppy mill? A puppy mill is a large commercial breeding operation where the housing is generally overcrowded and unsanitary with minimal care.

The main debate about puppy mills has to do with the conditions in which both the puppies and their parents are living. Many of these dogs become sick due to the poor living conditions. The dogs are seen as only a profit and not valued like household pets. The breeders run these mills strictly as a business and in their estimation it would take up too much time and money to properly care for the dogs. The breeders are continually fighting for their right to run a business, while animal activists are fighting to at least fix the conditions of these puppy mills, if not shut them down completely. The activists are also working on getting laws approved to help protect the dogs even more.

There are very few positive points one can make about puppy mills. The main purpose of them is to turn a profit, which is how the commercial breeders view them. Their main argument is that this is a free country and they have a right to run a business. They will also say that they are trying to support their family by running this business. This argument isn't a very strong one because there are other ways a commercial breeder could earn a living besides through the ownership and running of a puppy mill.

Though these commercial breeders are running a business for the sake of making a living to support their family, they aren't running it in an ethical way. The basic care of the many dogs they have on their farm would cost too much money and it would take away from the profit. Typically, the breeder will sell the dogs to a broker, who will in turn sell the dogs to the pet stores. Commercial breeders usually get no more than about $35 per dog, whether it's for purebreds or even hypoallergenic breeds of dogs. This is the reason why the conditions in the puppy mills aren't what they should or can be. All the dogs are used in every way for the most profit.

The cons of having puppy mills certainly outweigh the pros. Though every person has a right to own and run a business, the person has no right to abuse, neglect, and use the dogs the way they do. The dogs might live in small cages made of wood and wire mesh or crates stacked on top of each other to tractor-trailer cabs or simply on tethers attached to trees. With the dogs stacked on top of each other, feces from other dogs can fall into the lower cages onto the other dogs or can pile up in their own cage. This build up of feces if not cleaned can interfere with their natural instincts to keep the area clean. As a result of all this, the dogs get infections and their fur becomes matted, potentially attracting fleas. They can also suffer from severe dog allergies based on these various irritations and poor living conditions.

The dogs in puppy mills are often underfed and malnourished. Investigators have found food infested with maggots and water green with algae. Many of the dogs have suffered from starvation and not having any water. Not only do the dogs become malnourished, but they also develop other problems such as skin infections, open wounds, and ear/eye infections which don't usually get treated. Not only are their furs and bodies affected, but also their nails which don't get cut, causing them to grow out and possibly curl up. Being in the cages, the dogs' paws can get cut from the bottom wiring of the cage.

Female dogs in puppy mills are bred two times a year and then killed when they can no longer produce anymore puppies due to the excessive use of her body. This tends to happen around the age of four or five. Most of the time, the dog will be shot when she is of no further use to the breeder. Very rarely are the dogs euthanized. These dogs are constantly pregnant and don't have any veterinarian care during birth because of high costs for the breeder. The puppies that are born often have various illnesses. After their birth, they're immediately separated from their mother and sold. During their trip to the different pet stores across the country, many die from starvation, dehydration, and fatigue. Being constantly locked up in the cages, the dogs in puppy mills don't get socialization like they need. They don't get out of their cages to get exercise and play, and there is very little human interaction. So most of the dogs end up with behavior problems as they get older. This may not be ideal to the human that has purchased them and they may end up in a kennel.

Though there are laws that protect animals against cruelty, they are not being enforced as well as they should be. There are over 5,000 puppy mills in the country and the USDA is very understaffed with inspectors to check to see if the laws are being followed by them all. It's because of this that the commercial breeders are getting away with all the terrible things that the dogs have to suffer through. If enough households and people learn about the atrocious conditions under which puppy mills are operated, then it can go a long way towards eventually improving the conditions under which these pet dogs are raised.

Pet Dog Nation is a website dedicated to information and resources about pet dogs. The site features articles on dog grooming, dog care, training dogs, dog allergies as well as information about hypoallergenic dogs.

For more information visit: http://petdognation.com

Top Dog Toys - Ten Dog Toys Your Dog Must Have

We priced this list of dog toys at around $90 from online dog toy stores. You can modify this list to fit your dog size and age. Remember a dog should have a variety of textures and sounds in their toy box. Please give your dog new toys when you have the time to observe them with their toys. Make sure that your dog's toys are safe for their playing style. Happy dog toy shopping.

When asked what are the MUST HAVE toys a dog should have, we answer that it all depends. Dogs come in all sizes and with different playing styles, so we cannot to come up with one-size-fits-all list. However, recently a customer said that they were getting a 2 year old, medium size rescue dog. They had no idea of its background or if have ever had any dog toys. This is the MUST HAVE dog toy list for that medium size dog.

Every dog should have a Busy Buddy Twist 'n Treat. This space ship shaped dog treat dispenser twists to make the treat openings larger or smaller. Therefore, you can use a variety of spreadable and dry treats in this dispenser. This interactive dog toy is easy to wash and keep clean because it twists apart. If you find out your dog does not care for treats this makes a fun bouncing spinning dog toy. For medium size dogs, we recommend a medium size Twist and Treat by Premier Pet Products.

Rope toys are versatile and tough. We recommend a large 5-knot dog rope toy, 36 inches long and about 1.25 inches thick. This is a great tug rope, shake rope, and chew rope. Please buy American made white ropes, we like Pearson Industries ropes. Then you do not have to worry about dye chemicals. Watch your dog with this rope; if it pulls threads out of the fringe take it away, or you can try cutting off the fringe.

Now for dog balls, almost every dog loves balls. We suggest the 6-inch Bounce n Play Jolly Ball by Jolly Pets. This ball will not deflate when your dog punctures it with their teeth. This is a great size for chasing. Additionally, get a package of Kyjen IQube replacement balls. These soft balls are tennis ball size and have a squeaker in the middle. They are great for fetch and catch games both inside and outside.

Ty Bow Wow Beanies are quality crinkle toys at a great price. We love them all but, we suggest the Lizzy Lizard. According to customers, this toy is the toughest dog toy they have found.

Giggle Stick dog toys make sounds that many dogs love. Betsy advises the Giggling Flamingo; however, we suggest The Chuckle by Busy Buddy. Rubber surrounds this giggle stick, and so it is an extra durable dog toy. Because we do not know this dog's destruction style, it is best to find toys that are likely to last.

Grunters are great deep noisemakers. Your dog is sure to love Kyjen Pet Product's Furry Marmot. This super furry toy has a protected grunter in its body and a long tail. If your dog loves to shake its toys, it will love that long tail.

How can we pick just one talking-real-sound dog toy? There are so many great ones. Norman, The Sound Loving Dog decided on the Look Who's Talking Loofa Chimp by Multipet. This toy has a screaming Chimp sound and a cawer squeaker too...so it has two great sounds in one toy.

We love Dr Noys' Dog Toys by Kong. These plush dog toys have little or no stuffing, plus they have replaceable squeakers. They even come with extra squeakers. We love them all but are suggesting the Extra Long Snake. This snake is great for tugging, shaking, and squeaking.

Puzzle toys keep dogs busy and are a great way to bond with your dog. The Hide A Squirrel by Kyjen Pet Products is the most popular of these dog toys. The Hide A Squirrel is a plush stump with 3 little squirrels that fit in the holes in the stump. You put them in and your dog takes them out. The little squirrels are favorite toys of many dogs because they have a squeaker in the middle and are easy to carry around and squeak.

November 2002 my life changed with the adoption of Betsy, a darling black and white puppy. Before that time, I sold Antiques on eBay. Betsy is a very independent dog, and she needed lots of dog toys. Trying to order dog toys on line was very frustrating, mainly because the people on the other end were so cranky. I knew selling dog toys should be fun, so we (Betsy and I) decided to change BestFriends General Store to a dog toy business. Dog toys are now my passion. I go to all the major Companion Animal trade shows to find the latest, greatest, and most innovative dog toys. I call myself a dog toy expert...Betsy and Norman call me mom.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Candy_Blakeslee

Dog Odors...

Ever had someone come into your house and say, "phew, it smells like dog"? Helloooo....I do have a dog, or in my case, dogs. Sorry, the odor comes with the territory. We may not notice it ourselves, but to a non-dog person, the odor can be quite offensive.

And just try selling your house with pet odors. That is another chapter in the story. I tried the usual methods...bathing them, keeping up with house cleaning, the works. But until I removed all of the old carpet and washed down the walls, the real estate agent was not satisfied. Actually, I sold the house to pet owners who didn't seem to smell anything out of the ordinary.

Since I have become aware of the effects harsh chemicals can have on me and my dogs, I have searched for natural air fresheners to help eliminate any dog odors that may linger in the house.

Here are some that I have found to be easy and effective.

Essential Oil Room Sprays
· 1 ounce of water
· 12 drops of Lavender, Eucalyptus or Tea Tree.
· Place mixture in a spray bottle and shake well.

Making small batches often ensures freshness. You may substitute your favorite aroma.

Pet Blend
· 8 drops Cedarwood Oil
· 4 drops Tea Tree Oil
· 1 ounce water
· Mix the oils and water in a spray bottle and shake well.

Deodorizing Spray
· 6 drops Bergamot Oil
· 1 drop Tea Tree Oil
· 5 drops Lemon Oil
· 1 ounce water
· Mix the oils and water in a spray bottle and shake well

Aroma Spray
· 10 drops Lavender
· 6 drops Sweet Orange
· 6 drops Peppermint
· 3 drops Eucalyptus
· Add mixture in a 1 ounce spray bottle.

You can also use this spray directly on your dog...but be careful not to spray in the eyes.

More ways to use Essential Oils
· Place a drop of Lavender or Lemon onto a light bulb. The heat from the bulb will spread the scent into the air.
· I also sprayed my central air conditioner filter with the above sprays so that the scent would be throughout the house.

Natural Sprays
· 2 cups hot water
· 1 tsp of baking soda.
· 1 tsp of lemon juice
· Put the water in a spray bottle.
· Mix in the baking soda.
· Add the lemon juice.
· Shake the bottle well

Natural Deodorizers
· Pour Vanilla into a bowl and leave it out over night
· Pour White Vinegar into a bowl and leave it out over night.

Try these natural air fresheners to keep your house smelling fresh, removing dog odors without the harsh chemicals. Then when someone, particularly a non-pet person, comes over, they will not say "phew, it smells like dog."

Joanie Housey gives hints and tips on natural remedies for dogs. Visit her website http://www.k9wellnessnherbs.com for more information. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joanie_Housey

The Dog Owner's Guide to Going Camping

Enjoying a bit of solitude in the great outdoors is a fantastic way to replenish your energy and return to your daily routine recharged. There's no other place your dog would rather be than by your side. Whether enjoying a hike together, fishing, or simply roaming the woods, your pooch will make a perfect camping buddy. But, taking your canine companion with you on a camping trip requires some upfront planning. This article will help prepare you for the adventure.

Call Ahead To The Campsite

Not all campgrounds allow dogs. Sadly, many campsites have established rules prohibiting our four-legged friends because of the inconsiderate behavior of a few owners. Examples include national parks, forests, and trails. The last thing you want is to plan a camping excursion only to be turned back at the site.

One of the best resources for finding pooch-friendly campsites is the Bureau of Land Management. Call your local office. They'll be happy to point you to campgrounds that allow pets. Plus, they can answer any questions you might have regarding on-site leash restrictions, spraying for mosquito prevention, and whether you need to provide proof of vaccinations.

Making Preparations

Hope for the best, but prepare for the worst. It's important that your pooch receives vaccinations for Lyme disease. In many areas, the woods are filled with Lyme-carrying ticks. A short roam through the wild can result in numerous tick bites.

Also, take along a mini first aid kit. It's not uncommon for dogs to sustain scratches and other minor injuries on camping trips. Pack bandages, Neosporin, snake bite supplies, and Benadryl for insect bites and bee stings. One quick note: before giving your canine Benadryl, ask your veterinarian about the appropriate dosage given your dog's weight, health, and age.

Make sure that you take plenty of drinking water for your pooch. Even if the weather is cool, he can still become dehydrated. Also, pack extra food for him and put it into a container that is safe from bears. Finally, a few extra towels or light blankets may come in handy (for both of you) if the weather turns out to be colder than expected.

Cleaning Up After Your Pooch

Bring plenty of plastic bags and pick up after your dog. This is one of the main reasons many campsites have begun prohibiting canines. It's unpleasant for other campers to stumble upon (often, literally) your pooch's bowel movements. So, be responsible and clean it up.

Going camping with your canine is a great opportunity to enjoy each other's company away from bustle of your daily routine. The key is in the planning. Call your local Bureau of Land Management office, pack the right supplies, and clean up after your dog. Those few steps can go a long way toward ensuring your camping adventure is an enjoyable one.

Find the best Dog Treats and Bully Sticks at http://www.bestbullysticks.com. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Avrum_Elmakis

Why Spay Your Female Dog-It might save her life!

Responsible pet owners choose to spay their female dogs for a variety of reasons, including the protection of a dog's overall health and to control pet overpopulation. While the miracle of birth is fascinating to many and most are particularly fond of new puppies, the fact is that pregnancy and birth can cause a variety of health issues in dogs. Also, cute puppies grow into adult dogs and without a proper home being available for these dogs, allowing female dogs to breed only increases the likelihood that her offspring will fall prey to unfortunate circumstances caused by pet overpopulation.
**Health Issues
Pregnancy and birth are not always the safest occurrences for some dogs. As a result of either, the risk to a female dog's health is increased as mammary gland infections and uterine infections may occur. While many believe that placing a dog on birth control pills or having them undergo a hysterectomy solves the problem of reproduction and is enough to ensure a dog's optimal health, this is simply not true. Often, birth control pills and hysterectomies (which do not remove the full reproductive tract) actually contribute to poor health in animals.

The following is a list of increased risk factors that may occur when spaying a dog is avoided in favor of other methods used against reproduction:
• Like most synthetic medications, birth control pills can cause unwanted side effects and cannot be used permanently. Thus, a dog can still become pregnant.

• A hysterectomy, also known as a tubal ligation, leaves a female dog's ovaries intact and allows the dog to still produce hormones that are produced in the ovaries, and to experience semi-annual heat cycles. While this appeals to many pet owners, many do not realize that allowing the presence of hormones and heat cycles increases the likelihood that a pet will try to escape the house or yard during mating season, which also increases the risk of them being hurt or lost.

• A hysterectomy also still allows a female to participate in regular mating habits. This, combined with the hormones she produces, more easily attracts male visitors to the owner's yard, which can be a danger to the family, other pets and increases the amount of pet waste in a yard.

• By allowing the dog only a hysterectomy and keeping hormone production in tact, owners also greatly increase the likelihood of the following in their pets:

1. Uterine infections

2. Mammary cancer

3. Tumors in the ovaries or uterus

4. Coat problems (Due to hormonal imbalances)

5. False pregnancies and other hormonal imbalances (Many of which are characterized by uterine swelling, engorged mammary glands and behavioral changes
Spaying a female dog involves the complete removal of ovaries and the uterus, which prevents hormone reproduction, hormone imbalances, heat cycles and mating rituals, as well as unwanted pregnancies.

Overpopulation
Pet overpopulation is a real problem in communities all across the globe. Unwanted dogs are more likely to be abused or neglected, and finding homes for unwanted pets is a difficult task. Without suitable homes for these animals, many are euthanized, as an attempt to control unwanted pet populations. Responsible pet owners who understand the importance of these issues opt to spay their female dogs in order to prevent them from reproducing.
To safeguard against the many common health perils in female dogs that are allowed to reproduce or who are given limited forms of birth control and prevention, spaying a female dog is the best and safest option owners can bestow on their beloved pets.

This article was written by Kelly Marshall of Oh My Dog Supplies - the best place to find cute dog clothes
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kelly_Marshall
Kelly Marshall - EzineArticles Expert Author

Helping Your Dog's Anxiety Through Thunderstorm Season and Fireworks Displays

Hi ,

I don't know if this method works but for those who have tried everything else mentioned below it might be worth a shot.

Karen :)

Does your dog lose his cool during the hot storm seasons? Do you have trouble finding what to do about it? You're not alone. Noise canine anxiety is very common; more than five million dog owners are in the same situation. But finding a good treatment can be daunting. Most veterinarians suggest that two different treatments: drugs and / or modification of behaviors. While one of them could work for you, there are other treatment options to consider.

First, let's examine the possible disadvantages of extensive behavior modification training.

Behavior modification may work for your dog, but you must be aware of its limitations before starting what could become a long, expensive, and sometimes frustrating training process, both for you and your pet.

Behavior modification are often difficult and time-consuming even as most dog owners have no extra time to spend with their dog already. The time that could be given over to a happy summer walk in the park is instead now allotted to this task. Even if you have an excess of time, the dog training is not easy for many of us and cannot guarantee success, even with persistence. Many owners who experience a lot of success with training their dog to sit, shake, and not jump on visitors can still fail to train a dog's noise anxiety away, due to it being a more nuancial and less obvious objective. The desensitization by an expert can be professionally completed, and yet still fall short - and then, there's a bill remaining to pay.

A lot of the disadvantages of the drug solution to dog noise anxiety will be obvious, as they're the same as for humans: an often prohibitive cost with a need for regular resupply (every storm season in this case), and potential side effects, interactions, and even liver toxicity. Don't forget that just as we need a doctor's visit for a prescription, you'll need to go through a veterinarian, which is another annoying fee. One thing that makes drug administration to dogs far worse is the fact that you'd have trouble asking even the most intelligent of dogs how the drug makes them actually feel. You may be leaving your pup sadly dazed just to get them through the stresses of a storm and firework summer.

Two other problems with sedatives:
1. You have to anticipate the event in time to give a dose, which isn't always a possibility, leaving you unprepared and back at the same problem and
2. Your dog will be affected for hours after the storm has passed and may be a danger to herself, sedatives combined with physical activity can throw off your dog's usual coordination and could potentially result in a broken leg.

Have you heard of a dog anxiety treatment that is inexpensive, requires no training, has no negative side effects, and displays results in most dogs? This may sound like the too-miraculous boasts of of an infomercial, but it is a real alternative with a number of testimonials findable on the web or from knowledgeable vets. The use of pressure wraps or vests for the treatment of anxiety in animals has been around for years. Unfortunately, it remains not so well known, and many veterinarians are not aware of this remedy (or even of the certainty of the noise anxiety many dog owners have directly observed).

The purpose of these enveloping wraps are to create a slight pressure on the body of the dog. The current hypothesis is that this pressure gives a pleasant sensation for the dog (similar to them being held or having a blanket wrapped softly around) and / or distracts the dog from their fears. Many dogs show a great reduction or elimination of the symptoms of the first use of the cape. Some others may take some time to become acclimated and really benefit from it - but no drugs or arduous training are necessary, and so it seems worth serious consideration

In conclusion, if your dog suffers from dog noise anxiety disorder, your hopes include, but are not limited to, expensive drugs or an elaborate training process. It is fortunate that there are simpler treatments to try to save you time and money and avoid potential side effects of drugs. Try pressure wraps, or try a combination of treatments, but make sure and show your dog you love them by giving them comfort and years of joy.

Tom is an amateur comedic writer, Shakespeare scholar, and servant to his three dogs. He has found the pressure wrap called the Thundershirt from http://www.thundershirt.com to be the best dog anxiety treatment for thunderstorms and other loud noises.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tom_Stoppard

Why Neuter a Male Dog??

Tomorrow-why spay the female dog (equal opportunity here!)

There are many things that you are going to want to think about when it comes to owning and taking care of your dogs. Making sure that they have the right lifestyle is very important, because it will help them be happier, and it will help you be happier as well. When it comes to your male dog, neutering is very important, because this is going to help you provide yourself with a great dog in general.

Male dogs are excellent companions. They can really get along with any other type of dog, as long as their personalities match together - but keeping them unaltered isn't something that you want to do. Breeding dogs is a major deal, and it takes years of hard work to be sure that you are producing good dogs. As a pet, you want to be sure that your male dog is neutered.

First of all, the main benefit of neutering your dog is that you won't have any litters. Of course, since the female carries the puppies, if your dog sneaks away to a girlfriend's house, you aren't going to need to worry about the puppies at all. But, you will be contributing to the pet population, which is already too high, and you will be creating a situation that is much worse when it comes right down to it. Keeping the pet population down should be everyone's responsibility, even those that own male dogs. Neutering your dog will keep the neighborhood dogs' safe, as well as any dogs that your dog associates with. Unwanted litters can be very frustrating.

The other benefits to neutering a dog are all benefits that you can enjoy on your own. They mainly have to do with your dog's behavior. First of all, an unaltered male dog has a tendency to spray all over the place, to mark his territory. Therefore, neutering your him will help stop him spraying in your home, because he won't care about his territory as much and won't feel the need to mark it. Also, neutered dogs become much friendlier towards other dogs, because they are no longer competing with them to pass on the blood lines. When your dog is neutered, he is going to get along much better with female and male dogs. They'll like him more, and he'll be friendlier with them as well.

Lastly, you should get your male dog neutered for his own health. Intact males are going to have a much higher rate of getting cancers and other diseases. It is simply a fact that when you neuter a male dog, as when you spay a female dog, the dog will be at less risk for the things that might cause them damage in the long run. You'll be able to help you pet be healthier, and you'll also be able to avoid huge vet bills for illnesses that you won't have to worry about. Getting your male dog neutered is the best choice for you.

This article was written by Kelly Marshall of ohmydogsupplies.com - bringing you designer-style dog bowls and feeders. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kelly_Marshall

Making Grooming Easier on Your Dog..

    Grooming isn't just about making your dog look pretty. It's about
removing excess hair and preventing painful mats from forming, keeping your
dog's coat and skin healthy. Anyone who has ever groomed a dog will tell
you that it is much easier to groom a well-maintained coat than one that is
full of mats. This is true for both the groomer and the dog.

    Here are some tips you can try to show your dog that grooming can be
fun.
* Start when your puppy is still young. His/her coat will still be soft and
fluffy, and should not need a lot of brushing. Begin by sitting your puppy
on your knee and stroking him to relax and calm him, then brush gently for
just a few minutes. After brushing, stroke his feet and examine his nails.
Doing this a couple of times a day will help you build a trusting
relationship and get him used to being handled. Ignore any attempts he
makes to chew the brush.
* If your dog is older, designate an area to groom him. A table or laundry
bench with a non-slip mat is ideal for a small dog. (Never leave a dog
unattended on a raised surface.)
* Dogs love routine -- try to establish a routine for your grooming. The
best time is when your dog is a little bit tired after his daily walk or a
vigorous play session.
* Stay calm, and never shout or show aggression. Your dog will learn to
enjoy grooming (or to at least tolerate it calmly)  through positive
reinforcement -- lots of praise.
* Always end your session on a positive note and reward your dog with a
treat or a toy.

   If you practice these simple tips, your dog will soon learn to enjoy
his/her "spa treatments,'' and especially the personal attention. This will
make him easier to handle and ensure a positive experience for everyone.

Sue Wright
Pet Stylist at Animal Affair Grooming Salon & Canine Boutique
http://www.animalaffair.com.au

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sue_Wright

Making Grooming Easier on Your Dog..

    Grooming isn't just about making your dog look pretty. It's about
removing excess hair and preventing painful mats from forming, keeping your
dog's coat and skin healthy. Anyone who has ever groomed a dog will tell
you that it is much easier to groom a well-maintained coat than one that is
full of mats. This is true for both the groomer and the dog.

    Here are some tips you can try to show your dog that grooming can be
fun.
* Start when your puppy is still young. His/her coat will still be soft and
fluffy, and should not need a lot of brushing. Begin by sitting your puppy
on your knee and stroking him to relax and calm him, then brush gently for
just a few minutes. After brushing, stroke his feet and examine his nails.
Doing this a couple of times a day will help you build a trusting
relationship and get him used to being handled. Ignore any attempts he
makes to chew the brush.
* If your dog is older, designate an area to groom him. A table or laundry
bench with a non-slip mat is ideal for a small dog. (Never leave a dog
unattended on a raised surface.)
* Dogs love routine -- try to establish a routine for your grooming. The
best time is when your dog is a little bit tired after his daily walk or a
vigorous play session.
* Stay calm, and never shout or show aggression. Your dog will learn to
enjoy grooming (or to at least tolerate it calmly)  through positive
reinforcement -- lots of praise.
* Always end your session on a positive note and reward your dog with a
treat or a toy.

   If you practice these simple tips, your dog will soon learn to enjoy
his/her "spa treatments,'' and especially the personal attention. This will
make him easier to handle and ensure a positive experience for everyone.

Sue Wright
Pet Stylist at Animal Affair Grooming Salon & Canine Boutique
http://www.animalaffair.com.au

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sue_Wright