What a breeder should require of you

• Explain why you want a dog.
• Tell her who in the family will be responsible for the pup's daily care, who will attend training classes, where the dog will spend most of her time, and what "rules" have been decided upon for the puppy--for example, will the dog be allowed on furniture?
• Provide a veterinary reference if you already have pets or, if you don't have other pets, she should ask which practices you are considering for your new puppy.
• Provide proof from your landlord or condominium board (if you rent or live in a condominium complex) that you are allowed to have companion animals.
• Sign a contract that you will spay or neuter the dog unless you will be actively involved in showing him or her (which applies to show-quality dogs only).
• Sign a contract stating that you will return the dog to the breeder should you be unable to keep the dog at any point in the dog's life.

It was once believed that one year, in the life of a cat, was equivalent to seven years of a human life. Recently, a new scale has been established: after the first two years, the cat's life proceeds slower in relation to a human life and each feline year is approximately four human years. By the general consensus, a cat about age seven is considered "middle-aged," and at age ten "old." 

 

 

 

 

How to Select a Groomer

 

 

A pet’s trip to the groomer is not only about "looking nice" or "smelling good" as many people seem to think, it is so much more than that.

 

A fine groomer can help you keep your pet in excellent condition. They will detect things about your dog that you perhaps missed such as the beginning of an ear infection, lumps, scratches, etc.

 

Not all groomers are the same, so it is most important to choose the right one that responds to your pet’s personality, who is experienced with your specific breed and the type of grooming you desire.

 

When you decide on a groomer, it is important to make sure that it is someone who will keep your pet safe.  Remember, we are using sharp objects on a living creature that is not aware of the danger of moving at the wrong time. Accidents do happen, so it is much better to make sure the environment is as safe as possible. In this respect, it makes sense to inform your groomer of any of your pet’s likes and dislikes, such as hating clippers around the face, tendency to bite on different things or having the toenails clipped.  Make sure that your groomer is aware of anything that may affect your pet’s successful grooming.

 

It is a good idea to check on groomers and grooming shops, you should try to visit them around mid-morning when most are at their busiest, this will enable you to see animals actually being worked on, how the groomers perform and how the shop is run. 

 

One important thing to be aware of in any grooming shop is smell. Most will smell like ‘wet animals’ and that is okay. However, a strong odor of urine or feces is unacceptable. Cleanliness must be your first priority.

 

Next is how are the animals handled. Physical restraint of a difficult dog is normal but overly rough treatment is not.  Notice if dogs or cats are left alone on the table, and the groomer’s attention focused elsewhere, or if there are scissors or shears left unattended. This is not acceptable.  Animals need to be restrained on a table with two grooming straps, one around the neck and one around the body and the groomer should have the animal in view at all times.  Also, it is important to find out what drying methods the groomer uses. If they use dryers with heating elements these must have a timer. Other shops use box fans which are safe as long as they have no heat. Make sure that they will not use a heated cage dryer on your pet.

 

When you have chosen the groomer, explain what breed of dog you have and discuss what type of clip you prefer, whether your pet needs special treatments, e.g. for allergies a particular hypo-allergenic shampoo. When the groomer has examined the pet’s coat he or she will know your grooming options.

 

Find out what time drop offs and pick ups usually are. If you feel comfortable with what you have seen and heard, make your appointment.

 

When you pick up your pet, ask how it went. A good groomer will be honest, and tell you what went well and what didn’t. Really look at your pet before you leave the shop. Any changes that you want made should be done now. Do not call later to tell them that the haircut needs a change. Lastly, if you like the way your pet looks, let your groomer know. Compliments are always appreciated! 

How to Photograph Your Puppy

 

·   Remove film from box and load camera. 

 

·   Remove film box from puppy's mouth and throw in the garbage.

 

·   Remove puppy from the garbage and brush coffee grounds from muzzle. 

 

·   Choose the right background for photo. 

 

·   Mount and focus camera. 

 

·   Go find puppy and take shoe from mouth.

 

 

·   Place pup in pre-focused spot and return to camera. 

 

·   Forget about spot and crawl after pup on knees. 

 

·   Focus with one hand and keep pup away with the other. 

 

·   Get tissue and clean nose print from lens. 

 

·   Take flash cube from pup's mouth and discard. 

 

·   Put ashtray and magazines back on coffee table. 

 

·   Try to get cute expression by squeaking toy over head. 

 

·   Replace your glasses on your face and fish camera from under sofa. 

 

·   Jump up in time to grab pup by scruff and say "not here, do it outside".

 

·   Call spouse to clean up mess. 

 

·   Fix double martini. 

 

·   Sit back in lazy-boy and resolve to teach pup 'sit-stay' first thing tomorrow.  

·   Try to convince yourself that pictures are overrated!

-Author Unknown 

How to Select a Veterinarian

It is very important to find a veterinarian who you feel comfortable with. If possible, it is best to do this before you bring your new pet home. If for whatever reason you need to change your vet, do it promptly, before your pet needs a visit.

 

One way to find a good vet is to ask friends, neighbors, co-workers or other pet owners.  You should interview a few different vets until you find one who meets your requirements.  It is a good idea to have a few brief and concise questions ready when interviewing the vets. This will help you understand the difference between them.

 

When you are ready to interview, call and make an appointment explaining that you are looking for a veterinarian for your pet. Ask for the cost of the visit.  You might want to take your pet with you to see his reaction to the facility and interaction with the staff and the vet. It is most important that you feel comfortable with the clinic, its cleanliness, odor and the way the staff responds to you and your pet. Usually, you can learn a lot just by talking to the staff. Don’t forget to write down the personnel’s names for future reference.

 

If the waiting room is crowded when you arrive, this is a chance to speak to other clients and enquire about their opinion of the facility.  

 

Some of things you may want to ask the vet are the following: the cost for blood work, spay/neuter and allergy tests, how do they handle emergencies, what vaccinations do they recommend, if necessary will they make house calls, do they board pets and what is the cost, what’s their procedure if surgery is needed and if your pet has a special need or disease if can they handle it.

 

Ultimately, it is your impression of the veterinarian, the facility and the staff and the responses you have received to your enquiries and concerns, as to whether you choose one vet over another.  

 

Once you’ve made your decision, you should thank the other vets for the interviews. Good communication is a good practice and leaves doors open for the future.

How to Stop Dog Chewing

 

 

All puppies chew. Even though it is a perfectly natural behavior, it is aggravating and expensive. Dogs chew just about everything from furniture, socks, shoes; anything they can get into their mouths.

 

Reasons for Dogs Chewing

§   When they are teething;

§   Fear or a phobia;

§   Seeking attention;

§   Loneliness or boredom;

§   Expectation – some dogs will chew before their owner is due home;

§   Separation anxiety - often occurs if you spend long hours away from home.

 

It is important to stop our dogs chewing as it can be very harmful. If your dog chews electrical wires, household cleaning containers or poisons, etc. they could be in serious danger.

 

How to Stop Dog Chewing

It is important to remember, that your dog is not chewing to spite you, dogs chew!!  Your dog does not know the difference between an expensive pair of shoes and your slippers.  Below are some suggestions:

 

1.   Provide your dog with plenty of exercise, both physical and mental games like obedience training.

 

2.         Give your dog a few tasty dog chews – just a couple of good ones. Do not over do it. Make it understandable that if he wants to chew it has to be on his toys.

 

3.         The best method to stop dog chewing is to intervene before it becomes a habit.  This means you should not leave your dog where he can chew something that you do not want him to chew.  If you must be away from home, keep your dog in a crate or a kennel run.

 

4.         If your dog likes to chew on any particular object, e.g. your favorite sneaker, try coating the object with a non-toxic foul tasting substance, e.g., hot pepper, bitter apple, or Tabasco sauce.  This can be helpful; however, it does not actually teach your dog to stop chewing since he could choose some other object. To distract the chewing, leave some tasty treats in the area.

 

5.         If you catch your dog chewing an unsuitable object, say and gesture a firm “NO” and replace that object with a tasty chew toy. Caress your dog when he starts chewing the toy.  If you do not correct the behavior immediately, your dog will not know what he did wrong.

 

6.         Obedience training is a good solution to stop dog chewing or any other behavioral problem. It will institute you as the boss and will build a strong bond in the owner/dog relationship filled with respect and trust.   

 

To control your dog’s bothersome chewing habit you should consistently follow these training techniques.  With common sense and patience you will be well on your way to end your dog’s chewing problem.

 

How to Stop Dogs from Digging

 

 

Dogs bring lots of joy and happiness but it can be very frustrating when they dig, especially if they dig excessively.  There are many reasons why your dog digs, he may just like to dig, he’s bored and needs stimulation, he’s storing food, seeking attention, or to cool down among a variety of many other reasons.

 

Remember, as far as your dog knows, there is a perfectly logical reason for him to dig, after all he’s a dog!  In order to end this activity, it is necessary to find out why your dog is digging. Once we know why, it is important to be consistent in changing his behavior, make it clear to him just what is acceptable and what is not.

 

Usual reasons for digging:

 

- Enjoys digging.

 

- Seeking attention.

 

- Attraction to the smell of fertilizers.

 

- Preparing a place to cool down or warm up.

 

- If digging under a fence, could be looking for a play-mate.

 

- To store food.

 

- Hunting for little critters.

 

Some of the following methods may help solve your dog’s digging problem:

 

- Make sure he has lots of exercise, both physical and mental, involve him in games like play    catch and chase the ball.  Dogs are social creatures and like to be included in your activities.

  

-  If you cannot supervise your dog, keep him in a crate or kennel run.

 

-  He may be burying a bone. Instead, give him a rawhide bone or chew toy.  

 

-  Bury some chicken wire under the fence he likes to dig – when he digs he will not like the wire scraping his paws.

 

- Give him a designated area to dig, fill it with soft sand and his favorite treats. Every time he wants to dig guide him to this area.

 

- If you are working in the garden, he may want to copy you. In this case it would be best if you confined him.

 

- If you are home with your dog for a couple of days, a method that may work when your dog starts to dig is to reprimand him and spray with a hose, this gives him a negative association with digging – you must do this every time he digs.

 

- Although not pleasant, this method can be quite effective – fill up the holes your dog has dug, adding some of his feces to the filling – dogs do not like this at all.  It seems that mixing some pineapple peel to your pet’s excrements makes it much more effective. They hate this smell combination.

 

-  Balloons are another tool you may use. Blow some up and bury them where your dog digs, when he digs there the balloons will pop and the noise will startle him. The idea is to cause a negative association and stop him from digging there.

 

- Then, of course, there are few commercial products that may be worth trying. 

 

Remember, when working to alter your dog’s behavior the most important thing is to be consistent though always gentle and loving, after all they are not aware that they maybe doing something wrong.

 

 

How to Stop Excessive Barking

 

 

Dogs love to bark, it’s their way of talking, and to them it is perfectly normal to do it. However, it becomes a problem when the barking becomes excessive.

 

There are situations when we want our dogs to bark and we must make it clear to them what these situations are and when barking is acceptable.  In order to train our dogs to bark at the appropriate time, we must first examine why our dog is barking in the first place. 

 

Dogs bark for a number of different reasons, if they want something; if they are excited when playing or having fun; to protect their territory; to alert the family to danger; when they are separated from the family or trapped behind a barrier; other animals; boredom or looking for attention.

 

These are some of the reasons our dogs bark, now how to modify it? It is important to realize that we must give our dogs clear indications of what is acceptable behavior. If, the dog barks and we yell and scream at them, and then let them come inside or give him a cuddle and a pat on the head, this will only reinforce the barking as your dog will take this as encouragement.

 

One common reason for barking is when the phone rings.  If your dog barks every time the phone rings, it is important never to yell at the dog. Get him used to the phone - have someone ring your phone a number of times, just sit there, do not say or do anything act casual.  Repeat this process until he gives up.  Also, teaching the “Quiet” or “Stop” command should correct the problem. Changing the ring tone or volume sometimes helps.

 

Dogs will often bark when there is nobody at home; this is very difficult to control. Because they are social creatures, dogs can become stressed, bored and frustrated when they are alone.  First thing, make sure your dog is happy, that he has fresh water, food, toys and a comfortable bed and preferably no distractions (view of the street).  If you find he has been barking while you were out, ignore him when you return for a short time, when he has settled down then you can pay him some attention.

 

Another method which takes time and patience is praise or reward when he does something good and negative reaction when he does something bad.  An example would be to leave the house as normal and hide somewhere, when he starts to bark, spray him with water. Make sure he does not see you while you do this, repeat this process as many times as necessary until the barking stops.

 

There is also another method which may work, a Citronella Spray No Bark Collar. Each time the dog barks a fine mist of citronella is sprayed – dogs do not like this smell at all.

 

Dogs will often bark if they want your attention or they want something in particular. If your dog is barking for attention, just ignore him. Once he realizes he is not getting the attention, he will stop.  If he is trying to be ‘bossy’ you must make him understand that you are his boss and this type of behavior will not occur.  Your dog really wants to please you therefore it is up to you to establish the rules of behavior.

 

Many dogs will bark at the mailman, the delivery driver, etc. because they view these people as intruders and a threat. When he barks and these people go away he is rewarded, he thinks he has done a good thing and saved the family.  If at all possible, block your dog’s access and vision to this particular area. If your dog persists in barking at a particular person, you may be able to use that same person to help modify his behavior.  Every time this person comes to your house, give him a treat for the dog and thus, the person will no longer be a threat.

 

 

 

 

 

 

How to Give Your Cat a Bath

 

 

Cats in general do a good job cleaning themselves however, there might be times they may need help.

 

Giving a cat a bath can be a little difficult since most cats are not fond of getting wet.

Just in case you should have available at all times, a special kitty shampoo. The regular shampoo you use everyday may have harsh scents or chemicals that could be harmful to your cat’s coat.

By this time you should know well f your cat’s personality. You will know if your cat will fight you and how hard his fight will be to get away from water. So take every safety measure necessary to protect yourself and your cat. After all, most cats are ready with an efficient defense. Their claws!

If you have an apron then you’re all set. Of course, most of us don’t have these types of armor and they are not necessary to get the job done. I’ve found that a thick, durable fabric like denim or even a thick cotton apron works just fine. Just make sure, whatever you wear, that it can’t go through too easily by your cat’s claws.

The size of your cat, and intensity of its frenzy, should determine the bath space needed. You may be able to get away with using your sink for small cats and kittens. If not, use your bathtub and keep all doors closed. If you have a glass shower door, it’s not a bad idea to go inside the tub with an outdoor proof small chair.  

Before you put you cat under water, remember they will, most likely, be frightened.

When you attempt to give your cat a bath, chances are, your cat will know that something’s up even before you begin. Your cat may be scared by the sound of running water, or the splashing sounds in the tub or sink. It’s usually not the best idea to run the water over your cat like a shower. This could shock your cat and cause it to spring into action and try to run away from you.

The best way I’ve found is to draw a shallow bath and have a cup to pour water, slowly onto your cat so that it will be wet gradually.

Keep in control! Your cat must realize that you are the master of your domain While cornering is not advised, you will need to restrict his movement somehow. This might take the effort of two people for uncontrollable cats and may take some force. Whatever you do, please don’t hurt your pet!

Once you have the control, and the water is ready, complete the bathing as quickly as possible.

Wet your cat’s coat thoroughly and lather him up with his private shampoo. Do the best job you can; don’t forget the feet, tail and stomach. Always use extra special care when washing your cat’s face! Shampoo may not be needed in this area, and be extra careful around the eyes.

Once your cat is soaped, start to rinse. Using the same, gentle pouring motion with the cup and the water in the tub rinse your cat’s coat. You may want to have a reserve of fresh, clean water for rinsing. Use your fingers to break up any matting and wok through thick coated areas. Rinse well, drain the tub, and you are almost finished.

Drying your cat should not take as much effort. You will not be able to get him completely dry with a towel, so do your best and your cat plus time, will finish the job.

When you let your cat out of the sink or bathtub, keep him in the area. Your cat will most likely want to shake first, just like dogs, and then gently, but with eagerness, rub your cat with the towel to absorb the excess water.

Your cat will begin to lick himself dry. You can then leave it in the bathroom until it’s dry, or let it out whenever you feel is best for you, your furniture, and your cat.

In order to simplify this process, here is a step by step guide on “How to give a cat a bath”:

1. Get cat shampoo
2, Suit up! Protect your body from potential injury.
3, Draw a shallow bath (warm, not hot or cold)
4. Restrain your cat
5. Wet
6. Lather
7. Rinse

8. Dry

The last thing you should know before is not to be frightened. You’ll both feel better when it's over.

All You Need to Know About Cat Behavior

 

 

Behavioral problems in cats, such as avoiding the litter box, excessive meowing and other attention seeking behavior, biting and painful or destructive scratching can be corrected by first eliminating physical causes then by instituting a program of gradual retraining.  Remember there are no bad cats only unaware cat owners.

 

I would suggest trying to deal with one problem of cat behavior at a time.  Too many “dos” and “don’ts” will confuse your cat and frustrate your training attempts. 

 

The cause of these behaviors can be either physical or emotional or both. It is important for you to determine what is causing your cat’s behavior before deciding on a course of action.

 

Some of these attention seeking behaviors include night howling, begging for food and treats, pawing your arm or leg, constant meowing, inappropriate scratching and PICA.  These behaviors can result in stress or anxiety particularly if there has been a recent change in the household, e.g. a new baby, another pet.

 

Aggression in cats takes many forms and can stem from many causes, including fear. This type of behavior includes fighting, biting and scratching; fear could be the cause here or poor training as a kitten.  Social interaction as a kitten is important as it allows cats to engage in play.  Playing kittens may seem like they are being aggressive to one another, but they are continually giving each other signals to indicate that this is meant as play and not as aggression. The socializing that occurs between kitten and sibling and between kitten and mother allows the kitten to learn successful socializing.  Aggression can also be caused by confining the cat and not allowing it to release its energy.

 

Supplying a companion for the cat tends to interrupt this aggression, reward calm behavior or wear the cat out so it has no need to express the behavioral problem.

 

Cats sharing a household will sometimes fight, but when active aggressive behavior between cats rears its ugly head, it is sometimes necessary for human intervention.

Aggression between cats can be fear-based, territorial or redirected aggression.

 

Destructive chewing by cats is undesirable, first, because of the potential danger to the cat (chewing on wires and cords, houseplants) and then of course, to your family valuables. Some cats will chew on fabric – wool is the fabric of choice in most cases particularly with Siamese and other Oriental breeds.  Destructive chewing in cats can range from teething in kittens, curiosity, boredom and even nutrient deficiency.

 

Are you troubled by illegal clawing by your cat?  Do not consider Draconian measures such as declawing your cat.  There are many ways to keep your cats’ claws happily engaged in legal clawing. 

 

Cats often indulge in obsessive-compulsive behavior, such as excessive licking, fur pulling, wool-sucking or tail chewing.  Once you understand the causes and eliminate any physical problems you can often reach a speedy solution and cure.

 

Shyness and fear in your cat stem from a number of causes and can be overcome with gentleness and patience.

 

Stress, although not behavioral, can lead to a number of problems which could be considered behavioral, e.g. depression or litter box avoidance.  When such problems suddenly appear one should first rule out health problems and then look for stress factors.

 

Need to get your cat into his carrier?  Clicker train him.  Anyone involved in clicker training their cats will tell you that it is not only fun for the cats but also for the humans. This is a most satisfactory training method for your cat and yourself.   

 

It is interesting to note that many so-called ‘behavioral problems’ with cats are the result of cat owners not understanding what our cats are trying to tell us. We must remember that our cats are very independent and have individual characteristics which make them much more endearing to us.      

Manual for the New Cat Owner

 

 

Awareness of the Costs of Responsible Cat Care - Adopting a cat can almost be compared with adopting a child. While some shelters and cat adoption groups make no such investigation, you owe it to your new cat to take care of his basic needs, as well as being prepared for emergencies. Some of the costs include quality food, litter box, litter, neuter/spaying, basic vaccinations and annual veterinary visits.  Veterinary insurance may lessen these costs.

Failure to Spay or Neuter a New Cat – People who fail to spay or neuter their cats quickly realize their mistake; male cats spraying every available surface of the house or escaping outdoors to fight other male cats; female cats who keep the household awake with their loud yowling during estrus; and worse yet, "surprise" litters of unwanted kittens. Both the overwhelming cat population problem and the added medical problems are reasons enough to spay and neuter.

Neglecting Veterinary Treatment – Most cats may quickly recover from minor illnesses, however, they can just as quickly die if an emergency isn't recognized. Cats need vaccinations and annual examinations and of course, immediate veterinary care when they become sick or injured. You need to choose a good vet as quickly as possible.

False Savings in Cat Food - Cats are carnivores and need a good source of meat protein. They do not need a cheap source of protein, it is much better to spend a little more for quality food and in the end save more on veterinary visits. Your cat may eat less of the high quality food because they don't have to overeat to get the nutrients they need.

 

Declawing Without Knowledge - Many innocent new cat owners have been led to declaw when a veterinarian asks - "Do you want your kitten declawed?"  You should learn the facts about this procedure, most cat people consider this cruel and inhumane and totally unnecessary.

 

Allowing a Cat to Roam Freely Outdoors – Many people believe cats deserve the freedom, fresh air and sunshine of an outdoor life, while many others will show that cats can be very happy and healthy living totally indoors. Fortunately, there are a number of compromises that will give you and your cat the best of both worlds, while keeping him safe and happy.

 

Neglecting Litter Box Maintenance - Cats will consistently use a litter box, if it is kept thoroughly clean and if the litter is not scented or unpleasant to the cats' feet. Maintaining your cat's litter box will make sure that you will not be faced with litter box avoidance problems.

Warning: If your cat suddenly starts urinating outside the box, despite your careful maintenance, you should immediately suspect a urinary tract problem, which is a veterinary emergency.

 

Considering a Cat your Property - When you “join the club” of cat lovers, you'll soon find that we commonly refer to our cats as family members, rather than "pets." In some places cats may be considered “property,” however; most cat owners will agree that you can no more “own” a cat than own another person. In fact, many cat lovers describe themselves as being owned by their cats!

 

Not Allowing a Cat to Be a Cat - A cat is not a child or a dog. Cats' unique and independent ways make them the attractive creatures they are, but some of their traits may cause frustration if you don't understand their needs. Cats instinctively seek out high places and sharpen their claws because they are cats, not because they are stubborn and disobedient. Your job is to accommodate those needs in suitable ways.

 

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