Please let me know if you have any suggestions to help curb a barking problem when we are not home. Our 2 year-old Shepherd/Chow mix rarely barks when we are home, but when we leave her in her nice pen outdoors when we are gone she yips and barks. We have tried stuffed animals and kong toy with food inside. Do we need to get a bark collar? Any other suggestions or info on the collars would be appreciated.
Thank you,
Beth Nordstrom
Dear Beth:
First, I would try to figure out what is causing the dog to bark. It may be nothing more than nuisance barking. In which case, a bark collar would work best.
But I'd first rule out all other factors, such as:
- A neighbor's kid who may be taunting your dog.
- Lack of exercise/stimulation.
- Throwing a toy outside of the pen and then barking in an attempt to "make it come back"
- Any number of other factors that could be eliminated before dropping $100 on a bark collar.
I don't know what type of exercise regimen you've got your dog on now, but it probably wouldn't hurt to buy a bicycle and start taking your dog for long runs. (It's good for you, too!)
As for which bark collars to use... the ones that I've had the most success with are the Tri-Tronics Bark Limiter. I've tried the cheap yellow ones they sell at the pet stores and have found them to be poorly engineered, consistently over or under-correcting your dog, and resetting themselves too quickly.
The citronella collars are largely a joke. The get clogged and jam frequently. The citronella runs out. Plus, I'm not crazy about spraying the stuff in your dog's eyes.
That's all for now, folks!
Adam
2008年9月16日星期二
2008年9月4日星期四
Turtles Swallows
Sea turtles are large, air-breathing reptiles that inhabit tropical and subtropical seas throughout the world. Their shells consist of an upper part (carapace) and a lower section (plastron). Hard scales (or scutes) cover all but the leatherback, and the number and arrangement of these scutes can be used to determine the species.
turtles
turtles are reptiles of the Order Testudines , most of whose body is shielded by a special bony or cartilaginous shell developed from their ribs. The Order Testudines includes both extant (living) and extinct species. The earliest known turtles date from 215 million years ago, making turtles one of the oldest reptile groups and a more ancient group than lizards and snakes. About 300 species are alive today, and some are highly endangered.
Sea turtles come in many different sizes, shapes and colors. The olive ridley is usually less than 100 pounds, while the leatherback typically ranges from 650 to 1,300 pounds! The upper shell, or carapace, of each sea turtle species ranges in length, color, shape and arrangement of scales.
Sea turtles do not have teeth, but their jaws have modified “beaks” suited to their particular diet. They do not have visible ears but have eardrums covered by skin. They hear best at low frequencies, and their sense of smell is excellent. Their vision underwater is good, but they are nearsighted out of water. Their streamlined bodies and large flippers make them remarkably adapted to life at sea. However, sea turtles maintain close ties to land.
turtles cannot breathe in water, but they can hold their breath for various periods of time.
Females must come ashore to lay their eggs in the sand; therefore, all sea turtles begin their lives as tiny hatchlings on land. Research on marine turtles has uncovered many facts about these ancient creatures. Most of this research has been focused on nesting females and hatchlings emerging from the nest, largely because they are the easiest to find and study.
Thousands of sea turtles around the world have been tagged to help collect information about their growth rates, reproductive cycles and migration routes.
Like other reptiles, turtles are poikilothermic . Like other amniotes, they breathe air and do not lay eggs underwater, although many species live in or around water. The largest turtles are aquatic.After decades of studying sea turtles, much has been learned. However, many mysteries still remain.
for:http://www.turtles-house.com
2008年8月28日星期四
Pugs: Unique and One of a Kind
This endearing little dog is gaining popularity as more and more people fall in love with this odd looking dog. For the Pug size is irrelevant and this brave and adorable dog will become your most loyal companion.
The head and tail are the most distinctive features of this breed. The short muzzle and decidedly "squashed" appearance have a lot to do with the increase in popularity that the breed is currently enjoying. If you are thinking of owning a Pug you will want to know some things about the breed before purchasing In order to make an informed decision.
The short muzzle is also the cause of many of the health problems that Pugs suffer from. Breathing problems, sinus problems and snoring are just some of the issues that result from this charming facial feature.
They are generally small and the breed standard states that they should be between 14-18 pounds. Pugs are prone to overeating and should be exercised regularly to avoid obesity.
The Pugs' characteristically wrinkled skin is another of the breeds charms. If you own a Pug be sure to clean between your Pug's wrinkles regularly to avoid skin infections. All kinds of nasty stuff gets trapped in there and can cause an odor.
The Pug is intelligent and mischievous with a heart of gold. They are good watchdogs and they get along well with other pets. A well-trained pug is well behaved with children and strangers. Generally friendly and a pleasure to be around, you will need to spend some time training and socializing your Pug puppy.
Pugs also have some special grooming needs. Their short coat is easy to groom but they do tend to shed a lot. However if you have a fawn colored pug the hair is very hard to see if you have light colored carpet and furniture.
A well cared for Pug can live up to 15 years and over. Regular exercise, (careful not to over do it though) is a must.
Feeding your Pug a good quality diet will make a difference to his lifespan. Pugs are prone to obesity and you will need to control their food intake. The accepted standard is that you should be able to feel the Pugs ribs and see a waist.
A Pug has the ability to be both calm and also playful when the time is right. Their cute mischievous faces make them a delight. They are very easy going and adapt to most situations. They are also great with children and tend to put up with anything children can dish out. Try to spend as much time as possible with your Pug puppy.
The head and tail are the most distinctive features of this breed. The short muzzle and decidedly "squashed" appearance have a lot to do with the increase in popularity that the breed is currently enjoying. If you are thinking of owning a Pug you will want to know some things about the breed before purchasing In order to make an informed decision.
The short muzzle is also the cause of many of the health problems that Pugs suffer from. Breathing problems, sinus problems and snoring are just some of the issues that result from this charming facial feature.
They are generally small and the breed standard states that they should be between 14-18 pounds. Pugs are prone to overeating and should be exercised regularly to avoid obesity.
The Pugs' characteristically wrinkled skin is another of the breeds charms. If you own a Pug be sure to clean between your Pug's wrinkles regularly to avoid skin infections. All kinds of nasty stuff gets trapped in there and can cause an odor.
The Pug is intelligent and mischievous with a heart of gold. They are good watchdogs and they get along well with other pets. A well-trained pug is well behaved with children and strangers. Generally friendly and a pleasure to be around, you will need to spend some time training and socializing your Pug puppy.
Pugs also have some special grooming needs. Their short coat is easy to groom but they do tend to shed a lot. However if you have a fawn colored pug the hair is very hard to see if you have light colored carpet and furniture.
A well cared for Pug can live up to 15 years and over. Regular exercise, (careful not to over do it though) is a must.
Feeding your Pug a good quality diet will make a difference to his lifespan. Pugs are prone to obesity and you will need to control their food intake. The accepted standard is that you should be able to feel the Pugs ribs and see a waist.
A Pug has the ability to be both calm and also playful when the time is right. Their cute mischievous faces make them a delight. They are very easy going and adapt to most situations. They are also great with children and tend to put up with anything children can dish out. Try to spend as much time as possible with your Pug puppy.
2008年8月22日星期五
6 Tips for Keeping Your Dog Safe and Warm This Winter
Do you live in an area of the country that is subject to heavy snowfalls or very cold temperatures? This would be areas like Wisconsin, Minnesota, upstate New York, North Dakota and Montana - to name a few.
If this is the case and your dog spends a lot of time out of doors, you need to think about the steps you can take to protect him or her from winter's cold blasts
You need to be especially careful if your dog has a very short coat or no undercoat. For example, our Cairn Terrier has no undercoat and is, therefore, much more susceptible to cold weather than out Wheaton Terrier.
Tip #1. If your dog does spend a great amount of time outdoors, make sure that you have a very warm and sturdy doghouse. In fact, if you live in the far north or northeast, you should probably insulate that dog house. If you do not currently have a dog house, there are many plans available - some of which are even free - that can help you put one together quickly. For that matter, you can buy a dog house kit and simplify the task of building that dog house even further.
Tip #2. Again, if you live in a very cold part of the country, you might consider buying your dog a warming mat or a doghouse heater for Christmas. There are doghouse heaters available for less than $60 and heated mats that can be purchased for about $75 for a large dog, scaling down to around $44 for a small dog. There are also warming throws available for around $75, again for a large dog.
Tip #3. You also need to consider the weather and your dog's paws. Hard frozen ground, as well as snow and ice, can cause your dog's paws to become sore and cracked. While it may sound funny, your best bet for protecting those paws might be doggy boots. These boots are generally made of water-resistant fabric on the outside, with a warm fleece or flannel lining. Most have elastic cuffs around the top and Velcro fasteners to help keep them in place.
Tip #4. If your dog refuses to wear doggy boots or if doggy boots are just not practical for some reason, make sure you keep the hair around its paws and "ankles" cut short and its nails trimmed. This will help keep snow and ice from clinging to its paw pads. You might also gently rub petroleum jelly on your dog's paw pads before he or she goes outside. This provides a protective gel over the paws which will help keep them from cracking and bleeding.
Tip #5. This one may sound silly but more and more pet owners are purchasing doggy pajamas. These can help keep the dog insulated and warm. You might also consider investing in a dog coat or jacket.
Tip #6. Keep your dog indoors as much as possible. This is the best and most common way to keep a dog warm during the winter. If your dog prefers the outdoors or there is some reason why you cannot keep him or her indoors during really bad weather, then making sure you have a sturdy and insulated dog house is absolutely critical.
Winter can create problems for even the hardiest of dogs. But if you use common sense and follow these tips, you can keep him or her safe and warm during even the worst of weather.
If this is the case and your dog spends a lot of time out of doors, you need to think about the steps you can take to protect him or her from winter's cold blasts
You need to be especially careful if your dog has a very short coat or no undercoat. For example, our Cairn Terrier has no undercoat and is, therefore, much more susceptible to cold weather than out Wheaton Terrier.
Tip #1. If your dog does spend a great amount of time outdoors, make sure that you have a very warm and sturdy doghouse. In fact, if you live in the far north or northeast, you should probably insulate that dog house. If you do not currently have a dog house, there are many plans available - some of which are even free - that can help you put one together quickly. For that matter, you can buy a dog house kit and simplify the task of building that dog house even further.
Tip #2. Again, if you live in a very cold part of the country, you might consider buying your dog a warming mat or a doghouse heater for Christmas. There are doghouse heaters available for less than $60 and heated mats that can be purchased for about $75 for a large dog, scaling down to around $44 for a small dog. There are also warming throws available for around $75, again for a large dog.
Tip #3. You also need to consider the weather and your dog's paws. Hard frozen ground, as well as snow and ice, can cause your dog's paws to become sore and cracked. While it may sound funny, your best bet for protecting those paws might be doggy boots. These boots are generally made of water-resistant fabric on the outside, with a warm fleece or flannel lining. Most have elastic cuffs around the top and Velcro fasteners to help keep them in place.
Tip #4. If your dog refuses to wear doggy boots or if doggy boots are just not practical for some reason, make sure you keep the hair around its paws and "ankles" cut short and its nails trimmed. This will help keep snow and ice from clinging to its paw pads. You might also gently rub petroleum jelly on your dog's paw pads before he or she goes outside. This provides a protective gel over the paws which will help keep them from cracking and bleeding.
Tip #5. This one may sound silly but more and more pet owners are purchasing doggy pajamas. These can help keep the dog insulated and warm. You might also consider investing in a dog coat or jacket.
Tip #6. Keep your dog indoors as much as possible. This is the best and most common way to keep a dog warm during the winter. If your dog prefers the outdoors or there is some reason why you cannot keep him or her indoors during really bad weather, then making sure you have a sturdy and insulated dog house is absolutely critical.
Winter can create problems for even the hardiest of dogs. But if you use common sense and follow these tips, you can keep him or her safe and warm during even the worst of weather.
2008年8月14日星期四
Cleaning Baby Guinea Pigs
If you have recently acquired a baby guinea pig and are wondering how to clean baby guinea pigs, you definitely aren't alone. Chances are you even feel a bit uneasy about giving your pet a bath in the sink or tub because it is so huge and the little animal is so small. You might even have a sneaking suspicion that when learning how to clean baby guinea pigs that the traditional form of bathing is not very well recommended for the little creatures.
Cleaning Options
It is a great thing that you are trying to learn how to clean your guinea pigs because it really doesn't even have to be as difficult as bathing a dog or a cat for example. It is so much easier and less messy than that method and the guinea pigs are quite happy for it too as not many enjoy the water. In learning how to clean your pigs, there are a couple of different choices you have when trying to decide how to properly clean your pet guinea pig. Lets take a look at the options available to you and where to acquire them in your local neighborhood.
The first wonderful product that has in recent years hit the pet store shelves for small animals as a bath alternative and is a great tool in first learning how to clean baby guinea pigs is the powdered bath. The powdered bath is easily attained from the local pet store and even your local veterinarian should have an adequate supply of powdered bath for small animals. This is also incredibly easy to use and it causes virtually no stress on the pig as well your pet might even enjoy it!
In learning how to clean baby guinea pigs with the powdered bath all that is required is that you dust an even coating of the bathing powder onto the baby and let it sit for a minute. Grab your favorite pet brush and gently brush the baby and that is the best way to know how to clean baby guinea pigs and the safest way for them as well.
If none of these options are available to you while you are trying to learn how to clean baby guinea pigs, you don't have to panic it is still very easy to clean your baby guinea pig. If in a pinch, all you have to do is get a cloth and dampen it with lukewarm water and gently scrub the baby until it becomes clean.
Cleaning Options
It is a great thing that you are trying to learn how to clean your guinea pigs because it really doesn't even have to be as difficult as bathing a dog or a cat for example. It is so much easier and less messy than that method and the guinea pigs are quite happy for it too as not many enjoy the water. In learning how to clean your pigs, there are a couple of different choices you have when trying to decide how to properly clean your pet guinea pig. Lets take a look at the options available to you and where to acquire them in your local neighborhood.
The first wonderful product that has in recent years hit the pet store shelves for small animals as a bath alternative and is a great tool in first learning how to clean baby guinea pigs is the powdered bath. The powdered bath is easily attained from the local pet store and even your local veterinarian should have an adequate supply of powdered bath for small animals. This is also incredibly easy to use and it causes virtually no stress on the pig as well your pet might even enjoy it!
In learning how to clean baby guinea pigs with the powdered bath all that is required is that you dust an even coating of the bathing powder onto the baby and let it sit for a minute. Grab your favorite pet brush and gently brush the baby and that is the best way to know how to clean baby guinea pigs and the safest way for them as well.
If none of these options are available to you while you are trying to learn how to clean baby guinea pigs, you don't have to panic it is still very easy to clean your baby guinea pig. If in a pinch, all you have to do is get a cloth and dampen it with lukewarm water and gently scrub the baby until it becomes clean.
2008年8月9日星期六
Welsh Springer Spaniel Puppy And Dog Information
The Welsh Springer Spaniel is a pleasant and intelligent dog that loves humans. She is generally a watchdog. She can do well with other pets and dogs, especially if socialized when young. She also generally loves considerate children that she has been raised with. As a reminder, never leave a child unsupervised with a puppy or dog.
*Approximate Adult Size. The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the male Welsh Springer Spaniel is 17 to 19 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 40 to 45 pounds. The female ranges from 16 to 18 inches to the withers and 35 to 45 pounds.
*Special Health Considerations. Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Welsh Springer Spaniel is no exception. Be on the look out for epilepsy (common in dogs), entropian(hereditary disorder where eyelid, usually lower one, rolls inward and irritates the cornea and can cause visual problems. Surgery can correct this condition but may disqualify the dog from shows) and Canine Hip Dysplasia (genetic based looseness in the hip joint that can lead to arthritis pain and lameness). This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.
She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.
*Grooming. The Welsh Springer Spaniel has a soft, flat, straight and dense coat. You may want to consider periodic professional grooming. Her hair between her toes may need trimming occasionally. She should be brushed regularly. Brushing will help her maintain a clean and healthy coat, help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with her.
Her ears should be checked once a week and be kept clean. If you have her professionally groomed, make sure ear cleaning and inspection is part of the package. No water or excess fluid should get in the dogs ears, and do not try to irrigate the ears. Ear cleaning is too complicated and critical to instruct here. Look for hair growing in the ear canal, excess wax, or moisture. If her ears have a discharge, foul odor or she seems to be in distress and you suspect an infection, or tumor, consult your veterinarian.
Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.
Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet.
*Life Span. The Welsh Springer Spaniel can live between 12 and 14 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.
*History. The Welsh Springer Spaniel come from Wales where they were used for hunting, retrieving and watch dogs.They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1914.
Some Registries:
*The Welsh Springer Spaniel Club of America, Inc.
*UKC United Kennel Club
*NKC National Kennel Club
*CKC Continental Kennel Club
*APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc.
*AKC American Kennel Club
*FCI Federation Cynologique Internationale
*NZKC New Zealand Kennel Club
*KCGB = Kennel Club of Great Britain
*ANKC = Australian National Kennel Club
*ACR = American Canine Registry
Litter Size: 6 to 10 Welsh Springer Spaniel puppies
Category: Gundog, Sporting
Terms To Describe: Active, loyal, affectionate, happy, willing, sensitive.
*SPECIAL GOOD POINTS
Makes a good watch dog.
*SPECIAL BAD POINTS
Makes a poor guard dog.
Some may wander off after a scent.
*Other Names Known By: Starter, Welsh Cocker
*Every dog is an individual so not everything in this information may be correct for your dog. This information is meant as a good faith guideline only.
*Approximate Adult Size. The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the male Welsh Springer Spaniel is 17 to 19 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 40 to 45 pounds. The female ranges from 16 to 18 inches to the withers and 35 to 45 pounds.
*Special Health Considerations. Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Welsh Springer Spaniel is no exception. Be on the look out for epilepsy (common in dogs), entropian(hereditary disorder where eyelid, usually lower one, rolls inward and irritates the cornea and can cause visual problems. Surgery can correct this condition but may disqualify the dog from shows) and Canine Hip Dysplasia (genetic based looseness in the hip joint that can lead to arthritis pain and lameness). This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.
She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.
*Grooming. The Welsh Springer Spaniel has a soft, flat, straight and dense coat. You may want to consider periodic professional grooming. Her hair between her toes may need trimming occasionally. She should be brushed regularly. Brushing will help her maintain a clean and healthy coat, help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with her.
Her ears should be checked once a week and be kept clean. If you have her professionally groomed, make sure ear cleaning and inspection is part of the package. No water or excess fluid should get in the dogs ears, and do not try to irrigate the ears. Ear cleaning is too complicated and critical to instruct here. Look for hair growing in the ear canal, excess wax, or moisture. If her ears have a discharge, foul odor or she seems to be in distress and you suspect an infection, or tumor, consult your veterinarian.
Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.
Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet.
*Life Span. The Welsh Springer Spaniel can live between 12 and 14 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.
*History. The Welsh Springer Spaniel come from Wales where they were used for hunting, retrieving and watch dogs.They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1914.
Some Registries:
*The Welsh Springer Spaniel Club of America, Inc.
*UKC United Kennel Club
*NKC National Kennel Club
*CKC Continental Kennel Club
*APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc.
*AKC American Kennel Club
*FCI Federation Cynologique Internationale
*NZKC New Zealand Kennel Club
*KCGB = Kennel Club of Great Britain
*ANKC = Australian National Kennel Club
*ACR = American Canine Registry
Litter Size: 6 to 10 Welsh Springer Spaniel puppies
Category: Gundog, Sporting
Terms To Describe: Active, loyal, affectionate, happy, willing, sensitive.
*SPECIAL GOOD POINTS
Makes a good watch dog.
*SPECIAL BAD POINTS
Makes a poor guard dog.
Some may wander off after a scent.
*Other Names Known By: Starter, Welsh Cocker
*Every dog is an individual so not everything in this information may be correct for your dog. This information is meant as a good faith guideline only.
2008年8月3日星期日
Tips for Keeping Pets
Animals unlike humans cannot express their feelings and they cannot go on making demands and tell their owners when they need food. They are animals. Pet keepers bring home fish, cats, dogs, rabbits, hamsters and birds home all the time eagerly but sadly, they fail to take proper care of their pets because of which their animals die. If pets can not speak out, pet keepers themselves should be humane enough to understand their pets heartily and give them their rights. Some basic and simple tips for pet keepers can ensure a healthy and loving relation between themselves and their pets. As far as dogs are concerned it is advisable to keep it in a proper dog house which should be comfortable and cozy enough for it to reside in. Whenever you take out your dog for a walk make sure you leash it. They are playful animals, they love to jump and mingle with other animals and chase things. So avoid any bad circumstances it is always better to play it safe. Cats are well mannered and they are less messy than dogs. However they too need proper care. Dogs and cats should be bathed regularly and their utensils cleaned on daily bases. If your dog or cat ever urinate or excrete in your lounge, you should never leave it unclean. It is highly unhygienic for animals and pet keepers both.The animals that you keep in cages need a little more attention. They are enslaved so it is better to make them at least feel free. Birds or rabbits should never be kept in small cages. They should be big enough so that your birds can easily flutter their wings and fly about. It should be big enough so that your rabbit can run about and hide when it wants to hide. Animals kept at home should provide them with a sense of being in their natural habitats. This way they feel free and they live happily. Their cages, their beddings should be cleansed thoroughly and regularly. Animals should be vaccinated whenever they need to be. They should be taken for regular medical checkups so that they stay health and energetic. Animals too should be kept in a secured area and never be left out on their own. Pets are unlike the stray animals; they are vulnerable and require special attention. So pet keepers should make sure they take care of their pets the way they should be kept. They can always keep themselves updated through internet and magazines to acknowledge and fulfill their pet's needs.
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