http://www.articletrader.com/ Articles at ArticleTrader en-us http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/pets/important-steps-to-cleaning-your-dogs-ears.html http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/pets/important-steps-to-cleaning-your-dogs-ears.html Tue, 24 Jul 2007 00:00:00 -0500
Among the several factors that causes dogs ear problems are; ear design that is some dogs have short ear, some have long pendulous ear, while others have thick hair in their ear. Second is the humid climate that encourages the growth of parasites, bacterial and yeasts. Next factor is the long exposure to other infected pets and lastly the dogs that can swim are prone to ear infections.

To keep your dog free form ear infections you need put your minimum effort that will surely avoid major ear problems.

1. Follow the instructions as recommended by your vets. If you get the slightest hint of bad odor then do ear cleaning with warm water, mineral oil, hydrogen peroxide, or a combination of equal parts of vinegar and rubbing alcohol but make sure that your dog does not have open sores that will have a burning sensation.

2. You are also recommended to apply pet ear care product that cleans and dry up excess moisture in the ear canal after bathing or swimming. Pet ear care product containing Tea Tree Oil will keep the ear canal of your dog dry and problem free.

3. There are also pet ear cares products available for routine ear cleaning that will dissolve wax, remove foreign debris and dry the ear canal. Even home dog care treatments are also available that can kill ear mites and ear ticks.

4. Even though your dog’s eardrum is better protected than a human beings, but the process of cleaning should be done with precise care especially when you are inserting cotton-tipped swabs into the ear canal. There is the possibility of the dirt and other foreign matter to get pushed deeper and even losing the cotton tip in the ear canal if not handled properly. Use a long cotton-tipped swab since a dog’s ear canal is much deeper than ours.

5.Using the same cotton ball or unclean tip of ear cleaning solution in another dog's ears or even in a dog's other ear will surely spread disease. Therefore always remember to use a new cotton ball or wipe clean any applicator tips.

6. Another method of cleaning involves filling the ear canal with a pet ear cleaning solution followed by gentle massage of the outer ear. After a few minutes the dog is allowed to shake his head to help clear the ear canal.

7. Removal of excess hair by trimming the hair.

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Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/pets/dog-ear-care-inspections-will-prevent-infections.html http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/pets/dog-ear-care-inspections-will-prevent-infections.html Mon, 23 Jul 2007 00:00:00 -0500
There are several reasons to ear problems in your dog. Some infections are due to the structure of their ear for example straight ear allows inflow of more air into the ear canal whereas dogs like spaniels and bloodhounds having floppy ears allow little inflow of air into their ear canals are very prone to ear infections. Dogs having heavy growth of hair inside their ear are also prone to ear infections. Infections can be due to warm, damp, and dark environmental conditions as well as poor air circulation. Dog’s ear canal is the perfect breeding ground for mites, yeast or bacteria which are also another reason for infections.

Certain symptoms like excessive wax, foul odor, redness, constant scratching, excessive matting of hair in the external ear, rubbing the ears against other objects, head shaking, and disorientation directs at ear problems. As you know that “Prevention is better than cure” so take care from the very beginning and if you assume that the problem is beyond the scope of your home dog ear care routine then rush to the vet for an immediate check-up.

Check for redness, excessive wax build up or any other foreign matter with the help of a pet scope. It is an instrument to locate the ear problem in the interior of the ear canal if there is any. You can also detect ear problem by sniffing your dog’s ears. Check for redness, excessive wax builds up or any other foreign matter and if you find a dark waxy discharge or a pus-like discharge along with a foul smell then it sure that your dog’s ear is infected by mites and bacteria respectively. In case you cannot understand the problems as you are new then have your dog checked by a vet and as soon as your dog gets well soon then you yourself start inspecting your dog’s ear regularly. This will help you to distinguish normal look and odor from the abnormal one. If excess ear hair is the problem then to apply dog ear powder to the inside of both ears and make to completely cover the hair at the base. When the powder becomes dry then start removing the hairs with your finger or a tweezers stopping a few times to give your dog a few rub. This will make your inspections hassle free.

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dogs training
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Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/pets/rewards-play-a-beneficial-role-in-dog-training.html http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/pets/rewards-play-a-beneficial-role-in-dog-training.html Fri, 20 Jul 2007 00:00:00 -0500
There are many ways to reward your pet that ranges from simple things such as petting the dog or scratching her ears to more luxuriant treats such as home cooked gourmet treats. Playing with your dog brisk game like tug-o-war or simple chasing is a great reward and it greatly increases the bond between you and the animal. You can also reward your dog with a toy. Toys available in the market are very durable, dishwasher safe and are great for teaching your dog problem solving in them. Check out for the favorite food of your dog. Does your dog sit near you with their eyes centralized and mouth watering, expecting one small drop from you so that he too gets a chance to taste the same food? If they display such behavior toward certain kind of food then this reveals their favorite food. You can also reward him with his favorite food for his good behavior. You can even reward your dog with his favorite breakfast when he pleases you with his good behavior.

During the hot days of summer when temperature becomes unbearable and everyone wish to have cold treat do not forget to give your dog the same treat as a reward. Dogs though belonging to animal kingdom are similar to human at some point in nature. So they too will be happy to have a cold treat. A Puppy Popsicle will no wonder fit the best in the idea of rewarding your dog.

Rewards act as an important motivator in dog training providing the best possible results. Make sure that your obedience training is not boring but interesting. You can incorporate two periods of playtime one in the beginning and the other at the end of every training session so that the learning interest of your dog does not fade out. Treats and rewards are important because these add much color, flavor and essence to your relationship with your pet. Therefore remember that teaching your dog with happy and fun times is the basis of all successful dog training.

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dogs training
train dog
dog training

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/pets/how-to-combat-food-allergies-of-your-dog.html http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/pets/how-to-combat-food-allergies-of-your-dog.html Thu, 19 Jul 2007 00:00:00 -0500
If your dog is excessively itching and scratching then it is the symptoms due to lack of certain fatty acids that keeps the skin of your dog richly supplied with essential oil and not due to food allergy. Lack of fatty acids like Omega 3, 6 and 9 in your dog's diet will make their skin and coat dry. The condition of your dog is even more pathetic during winter indoor heating. Such deficiency could be avoided by supplementing Mrs. Allen's Shed Stop, Flaxseed Oil, Pet Botanic Skin & Coat supplement, Royal Coat from Ark Naturals or Health & Shine from Dr. Harvey's to your dog's food without switching diets to make their skin and coats oily.

Symptoms like excessive and compulsive foot licking, or chewing and biting other parts of the body, are generally the sign of food allergy. Recommendations are given after determining the cause of allergy that is whether it is caused due to any food or environment. Many vets recommend lamb as a substitute of protein which is is not "non-allergic", but it is less common than chicken and beef and an uncommon dog food ingredient. Expensive "allergy free formulas" are also recommended for the food allergic dog for instance Dr. Harvey's or Solid Gold Holistique Blendz, The Honest Kitchen's FORCE formula, or Sojourner Farms' new grain free Europa formula by some vets but it is better to begin with a good diet for your dog that contains the proper nutrients and vitamins especially formulated for dogs which is followed by introduction of your own protein sources and keeping the every day records of your dog’s reaction.

You can begin allergy testing by sticking with the new protein source for a week and than introducing a new one every week taking note of your dog's reaction. The purpose of introducing a different protein source is to test your dog's tolerance and to determine what type of food is causing allergy thus using common sense method combined with a good quality dog food to help your dog lead an itch-free life.

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dog training
dogs training
train dog

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/pets/importance-of-dental-care-for-your-dog.html http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/pets/importance-of-dental-care-for-your-dog.html Sat, 14 Jul 2007 00:00:00 -0500
The need for dental care increases with your dog’s age. To get the best result you need to ensure proper dental health for your dog at an early stage. Never use human toothpaste but use toothpaste and brush especially manufactured for them. To get your dog used to having his teeth brushed, start rubbing his teeth with a cotton ball dabbed with toothpaste, then follow using finger brush and finally regular dog toothbrush as they gradually grow up.

Even with proper preventive measures, most dogs are recommended a dental cleaning from your veterinarian just like human. Dental cleaning should not be missed out in any way because dental disease carry harmful bacteria that can pass through into the bloodstream causing potentially serious problems such as kidney and heart valves infections.

The technique of dental cleaning of your dog performed by your veterinarian is much like a human dental cleaning; which follows with several steps like thorough examination of teeth to determine if any teeth need to be pulled or repaired, x-rays of the teeth to find any cracks or diseased teeth but prior to any treatment your dog will be tranquilized by anesthetist. Dental cleaning is performed by a trained member of the veterinary staff after collecting the overall report with precise care which begins with scaling the teeth to remove the tartar above and below the gum line with the help of both the hand instruments and ultrasonic scaling equipment which is then followed by polishing and making the teeth smooth preventing plaque from adhering to them. Fluoride treatment is also performed to strengthen the enamel and prevent plaque from forming. Root canals and other intensive dental work is also performed to help prevent bacterial infection by most veterinarians. Therefore it is very vital for you to follow your veterinarian's advice to keep your dog’s teeth healthy.

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dogs training
dog training
train dog

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/pets/common-household-things-that-will-end-the-life-of-your-dog.html http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/pets/common-household-things-that-will-end-the-life-of-your-dog.html Fri, 13 Jul 2007 00:00:00 -0500
Some of the deadly household items for your dog are;

1. Bleach which is very toxic to dogs and if ingested will cause drooling, vomiting, and abdominal pain.

2. Moth Balls that contain an insecticide are very dangerous for your dog. If ingested they causes liver failure, central nervous system excitement and seizures and symptoms like vomiting and seizures are involved.

3. Antifreeze that smells and tastes very sweet to your dog and is very appealing to him contains toxic Ethylene glycol. Symptoms like seizures, vomiting, stumbling and lethargy leading to kidney failure can be seen if consumed.

4. Chocolate especially Baking chocolate and Dark chocolate are toxic for your dog even if consumed in a small quantity leading to poisoning and death. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, increased urination, and increased activity which can further lead to seizures and unusual heart rhythms.

5. Many common household plants are also toxic to if consumed for instance poinsettias, lilies, ferns, devil's ivy, aloe, and ivy. Vomiting and central nervous system excitement are the symptoms shown on consumptions.

6. Consumptions of Tylenol tablets disable the efficiency of the proper liver enzymes to break down acetaminophen those results in drooling, lethargy, and abdominal pain.

7. Seeds and pits of many fruits have also been proved to be harmful to dogs. Drooling, vomiting,
and lethargy are certain signs of poisoning.

8. Fabric Softeners are more toxic then other detergents and symptoms on consumptions
are vomiting, lethargy, burns to the mouth, drooling, muscle weakness, and even coma.

9. Consumptions of Watch Batteries and Alkaline Batteries can cause a potentially fatal ulceration in the stomach within 12 hours. Symptoms of toxicity include drooling, lack of appetite, vomiting, and lethargy.

10. Boric acid present in mouthwash or contact lens solution or denture cleaner is highly toxic to dogs and symptoms on consumptions are vomiting, drooling, seizures, and coma.

Rush to veterinary for help without delaying if you notice any above mentioned symptoms. Equip yourself with knowledge by visiting the veterinary school websites where you could find lists of things that are toxic to dogs and steps you should take at that moment. Moreover try to stick to the old adage " prevention is better than cure."

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train dog
dog training
dogs training

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/pets/building-a-dog-kennel-over-rules-purchasing-the-kennel-from-different.html http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/pets/building-a-dog-kennel-over-rules-purchasing-the-kennel-from-different.html Thu, 12 Jul 2007 00:00:00 -0500
Among the different requirements of your pet, a dog house or a kennel is very important. Owners staying in a very small apartment and has very little space to share with their pets, for them it is not possible to provide their dogs with a kennel and this further leads to performing extra work like cleaning muddy footprints of your and vacuuming carpets, sofa and other furniture which is very time consuming.

Gifting your pet with their cozy home is a nice idea but it is expensive too. Building a kennel is cheap and easy. Unlike hand made kennel, purchased kennel of a fairly standard size are available in the market which may be a problem for both large and small dogs. Hand build kennel over-rules such problems. Hand made kennel ensures exact size required for your pet that will have proficiency of retaining your dogs body heat and allowing self-insulation to a degree and free movement. With the help of a little knowledge of the building materials, other requirements and little experience in carpentry you can build a house for your pet. When building a kennel there are few basic things which should be kept in mind and they are, the height at which the kennel is raised from the ground to prevent seepage of moisture into the
wood. Second important point to be remembered is to select the right type of wood. Make sure to purchase exterior grade plywood instead of pressure treated plywood and at the time look out for chewing habit of your pet because chewing exterior grade plywood is harmful. Last is the size of the kennel that should retain your dog’s body heat and allow free movement. Next you can do is that imparting design and background color to match your dog’s personality.

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train dog
dogs training
dog training

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/pets/wireless-dog-fence-completely-safe-for-you-your-kids-and-your-dog.html http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/pets/wireless-dog-fence-completely-safe-for-you-your-kids-and-your-dog.html Tue, 10 Jul 2007 00:00:00 -0500
This wireless pet fence (PIF-300) has a six level receiver collar for dogs that weigh eight pounds and up is created to work on any dog, regardless of its personality. The working of the system depends on the radio signal send by the transmitter around your house which is received by the collar that the dog wears. The signal tells the dog is in the safety zone and is free to run around and play whereas the beeping sound reminds the dog approaching the boundary of the signal area. If the dog still does not care the beep then, it will receive a mild electronic correction.

The PIF-300 model has an adjustable radius shaped like a circle, which is unchangeable and varies from 15 to 90 feet from the transmitter. To create a larger area two or more regular transmitters are used. Furthermore this particular unit is made for 72 inches flat yards and if your area covers larger area then you need a second transmitter, one on the high side and one on the low side. The PIF-300 wireless dog fence with a power converter and the transmitter can also be taken on vacation. An indoor unit is also available that is recommended for dogs six months or older that weigh at least eight pounds.

A wireless dog fence is completely safe for you, your kids, and your dog. The slightest correction your dog receives from the wireless fence is harmless and it deters the dog to stay away from the boundaries. Once your dog learns the boundaries of the wireless dog fence, then there is no need to use the unit any more.

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train dog
dog training
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Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/pets/different-types-of-dog-beds.html http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/pets/different-types-of-dog-beds.html Sat, 07 Jul 2007 00:00:00 -0500
There are some point of considerations which has to be laid stress upon while shopping. Shop keeping in mind the size of your dog, its age, its tendency to track dirt and shed and most importantly the climatic conditions of your area. This is because a dog of warm climatic area will not feel comfortable on those bed that are especially made for the dogs of winter region or older dog will not find any comfort on the bed made for young dogs. dog bed that allows air to circulate and cool the dog is recommended for dogs of warmer region and a fleece-lined or even electrically heated pet bed is the best choice for the dogs in colder region. Orthopedic beds with medical-grade poly foam insulate older pets from cold floors and reduce strain and pressure on their joints. Next is the determination of the model and size of the beds which depends on your dog's breed. Larger breeds prefer bolster and mat pet beds, while miniature pets and puppies feel more secure in a nesting dog bed.

Since canines have the habit to loll and use their bed to maxim so there are chances of their bed getting dirty therefore a removable, machine washable cover (cotton in the summer and fleece in the winter) is ideal. Heavy woven poly/cotton blends are the most durable canine bed fabrics. Beds should be provided according to the behavior of dogs for example Dirty dogs should be provided all-weather cot, which can be hose down or spot-cleaned with soapy water whereas for Clean dogs luxurious velvet, sheepskin, and fleece dog beds. For bed-wetter, beds with a zippered inner liner, a few of which are waterproof is ideal. The stuffing of a dog bed is equally important those are available with different types of bed filler that comes in different densities and can be easily replaced, contains cedar chips for odor and insect control and provide comfort and are durable.

Travel pet beds for canines are also available for those who spend a lot of time in traveling, providing every comfort required by your canine.

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train dog
dogs training
dog training

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/pets/different-types-of-training-collars-for-your-dogs.html http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/pets/different-types-of-training-collars-for-your-dogs.html Fri, 06 Jul 2007 00:00:00 -0500
An infuriated owner of large and disobedient dogs will often try anything to keep them under control and one of their best options is a dog training collar. It is especially designed to train your dog to differentiate between good and bad behaviors quickly and without confusion.

Training collar must be used properly in order to be safe and effective. When using this equipment certain points should be kept in mind that dogs that are unruly can be friendly and quite useful once trained properly using a right kind of collar;

1. Buckle Collars are mostly made up of nylon, cotton, or leather can be flat or rolled. Rolled leather collars are better than flat ones avoiding hair breakage do not strangle dogs.

2. Quick-Release Collars are easy to put on and take off and do not tighten around dog's necks.

3. Break-away Collars gives you the freedom to control the dog and is meant to help the dog pull itself free.

4. Slip Collars also known as choke chains or chokers has the facility to be tightened and loosened and are made of braided nylon, cotton, metal or leather and have 'O' rings at either end.

5. Choke Chains are metal training slip collars employed to give dogs a jerk as reminder to stop their unruly behavior but are recommended nowadays as they may cause neck, back and tracheal injuries to dogs and may also cause them trauma.

6. Prong or Pinch Collars unlike chokers are much safer to use. However they can only be used with a back-up collar hooked to the leash because there are chances to get worn and stretched and opening of the spring.

7. Head Halters are employed for pulling purposes when the dog is walking at your side and not trying to escape from you.

8. Harnesses are applicable for sled and carting dogs that enables them to pull the cart or the sledge or weight many times heavier than its own body weight.

9. Electronic Collars that deliver an electrical stimulus to the dog, the intensity of which depends on the degree of disobedience of the dog. Recommended to be used only by professionals or it may have destructive effect on dog's self confidence, desire to work and general good will if not used properly.

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train dog
dog training
dogs training

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]>