2008年9月16日星期二

Treating Different Problems Related To Your Pets

Pets are one of the most unselfish beings in anyone’s household. So treating them when any problem arises is one of the most important things to do by any pet owner.

- When your Pet gets Stung

• If your pet is stung remove the stinger with tweezers, this increases his/her chances of survival with the removal of the venomous stinger.

• The stung area can get some relief with the use baking soda and water solution.

• To reduce the swelling apply ice pack covered with a thin towel over the affected area. Do it within every five minutes.

- For Skin Irritation

• If your pet has suffered insect bites, hot spots or other skin problems you can dab some milk of magnesia to soothe and calm the irritated skin.

• Apply aloe vera gel over the affected area. If you have aloe vera plant you can cut the leaf and use it as a soothing gel.

• Apply organic apple cider vinegar over the irritated skin.

• For hot spots you can use witch hazel for a continuous period of time.

• For itchy skin and paws you can bathe your pet in Epsom salt solution. In 2 cups of warm water mix 1 teaspoon Epsom salt.

• You can make a home-made spray to treat any skin problems. Use 3 capsules of sage, 1/4 teaspoon of Epsom salt and 2 cups of water. Boil this solution and let it cool. After straining, store this solution in spray bottle and keep it in the refrigerator.

- Other Problems

• Emu oil is can be used for many problems such as ringworms, flea bites, bee stings, rashes, hot spots and laceration.

• If your pet has been poisoned notify the vet immediately.

• If the pet has swallowed any toxic substance except for caustic substances, getting him to vomit, this would reduce the danger.

• If the pet has ingested alkaline substance such as cleanser or kerosene, vomiting would not be a good solution. Instead give 3 teaspoon vinegar or lemon juice diluted in equal amounts of water.

• If a battery has been ingested which is acidic, 1 tsp milk of magnesia, per 5 Lbs. of pet.

• If your pup has diarrhea and adult dog suffers with soft stool problem you can add canned pumpkin in their diet.

• A very common problem in pets is loss of vision caused mainly due to cataract. A very useful flower called cineraria has been known to reduce the size of cataract as well as minimize its existence. With the help of tincture, dilute 1/2 saline (to be purchased) and 1/2 cineraria to make eye drops. A daily dosage of 2 drops for 3 months can help to solve this problem.

• If your pet has lost his or her sense of smell, a nutritious meal can just be the right motivator. Feed your pet a rich and nutritious diet which improves the keen sense of smell. Warm canned food without salt, but with a dash of garlic powder is a good way to improve that smell.

Warning: The reader of this article should exercise all precautionary measures while following instructions on the home remedies from this article. Avoid using any of these products if you are allergic to it. The responsibility lies with the reader and not with the site or the writer.

2008年9月4日星期四

Grus japonensis


These cranes have white bodies with black on the tips of their wings and necks. They are named because of the red circle on their heads, which is actually exposed skin. Males and females look alike. Red-crowned cranes have very long and pointy beaks and can weigh up to twenty pounds. Their wingspan can be as wide as eight feet and they can reach 5 feet in height. They are one of the world’s largest bird. Their basal metabolic rate is 31.4 cm^3 oxygen/hour.
The red-crowned crane is a rather aquatic species among cranes. It inhabits both freshwater and saltwater wetlands and marshes as well as some rivers.

In Russia and China, it breeds in grass, reed, and sedge marshes. In winter and on passage, it occurs in wetlands, including tidal flats, saltmarshes, rivers, wet grassland, saltpans and aquaculture ponds
for:http://www.birds-house.com

2008年8月28日星期四

Boston Terrier: The Standard and Does it Matter?

To compete with your Boston Terrier you will need to understand the requirements and procedures used for judging. The American Kennel Club releases breed standards for each breed of dog and the Boston Terriers specifications can be found here. You can also check more specialized clubs for the information about required standards for your Boston Terrier. The American Kennel club is currently revising these standards.

If you want your Boston Terrier to take part in dog shows then you will need to understand the standards and how they relate to your dog. If you already own or are thinking about owning a Boston Terrier and would like to compete (or show off your dog) here's a guide to understanding breed specifications.

It's important to note that these are descriptions of ideal Boston Terriers.

Competition ranking systems: Dogs are judged out of a total 100 score. When judging Boston Terriers this score comprises the following elements:

- General Appearance
- Size, Proportion, Substance
- Head - skull shape, characteristics of eyes, ears, muzzle, jaw shape.
- Neck, Topline and Body
- Forequarters
- Gait
- Coat
- Temperament
- Faults in the breed: can lead to instant disqualification

General Appearance

Boston Terriers are intelligent dogs. General appearance needs to be well-balanced; this means all limbs are in proportion. Boston Terriers have a smooth coat which is generally brindle, seal or black. The dog must have even white markings.
The body is short and the limbs are strong. The tail is short.

Size, Proportion, Substance

This refers to your dog’s weight. There are several official weight categories but the dog’s weight cannot exceed 25 pounds.

The Boston Terriers legs should be proportioned to give it its characteristic square appearance. The dog looks sturdy and muscular.

In general the only difference between the male and female is that the bitch generally has more refined features.

Head

The skull is short and flat on top. There should be no wrinkles. The cheeks are flat and the stop is well defined. Boston Terriers should have an alert _expression; reflecting their high intelligence. The eyes should be wide set and large. Boston Terriers with blue eyes - or any hint of blue in their eyes will be disqualified immediately. The ears should be small and stand upright.

The jaw is square and wide with short teeth. The bite is even.

Neck, Towline and Body

The neck should be slightly arched and carry the head gracefully. The neck of the ideal Boston terrier should display an image of balance.

Topline refers to the shape of the dogs back. The back should be shaped in such a way that it completes the square shape of the body.

The chest should be deep with a good width, ribs etc.

Forequarters

The shoulders should be laid back and should slope. IT is this shape which gives Boston Terriers their stylish movement. The elbows should be straight and not protrude in any way. The dewclaws may be removed.
Gait

This refers to the way in which your dog carries himself. The ideal Boston Terrier is sure-footed and straight gaited. The forelegs and hind legs should move in a straight line with perfect rhythm. Each step should be that of grace and power.

Coat

The coat should be short, smooth and fine in texture. Color must be brindle, seal or black with bright markings. The Boston Terrier must have a white muzzle band, white between the eyes and a white chest.

Temperament

The ideal Boston Terrier is friendly and lively. The dog is known for its high intelligence.
Faults in the breed (grounds for disqualification)

Any traces of blue or blue eyes - eyes must be dark

Dudley nose - This means a loss of pigmentation in the nose and it is pink or flesh colored, however when Boston’s are first born and up to 6 months their nose will be pink. It will change to the color black so don’t let this hinder you from buying a Boston with a pink nose.

Docked tail - This refers to the practice of cutting tails. It is an outdated practice and your dog will be disqualified.

Lack of required markings

Other serious faults

Wry mouth - one side of the mouth is longer than the other.

Any showing of the tongue/teeth when the mouth is closed

Other faults

Blocky or chunky appearance

Overshot bite/undershot bite - much like human 'faults' this just means an over or under bite.

The Boston Terriers make a great family pet. They are highly intelligent, loyal, great with children and very easy going. They are not considered fighters but definitely can hold their own. If you don’t plan to show your Boston then these qualifications don’t mean a thing. Boston Terriers are the perfect all around companion just the way they are.

2008年8月22日星期五

Taking Your Pets With You On Your Vacation

Pets, for many people all over the world, are just like family that they don't want to leave them at home or with friends and relatives but instead would want to take them along on the vacation trip. But before you make your decision as to whether to take your pets with you or not, there are several considerations to think about and tips that could prove to be useful.

Keep in mind that some pets are not suitable for travel so you should consult your vet if you can take your pet along with your to ensure your pet's safety.

Different airlines have different policies and regulations when it comes to taking pets along with you. Some airlines do not even allow pets so it is best to inquire early on with regards to the airline's pet travel policies. While you may want to carry your pet with you on board the plane, most airlines would allow them only at cargo most especially if you have a big pet.

Most airlines have specific requirements when it comes to the carriers so make sure you comply with it. Choose a carrier that has ample room and space for your pet to be comfortable and be able to move around during the entire flight. As much as possible get a non-stop flight as you wouldn't want to lose your pet in transit. Properly label the carrier with your name, contact address, contact number and final destination.

If you are driving your way to your vacation destination, you can take your pets along with you. You basically have the option of keeping them in a carrier or not. But most pets actually love to travel by car. Cats though are best kept inside carriers as they feel uncomfortable when traveling. Should you decide not to keep your pet inside the carrier, secure your pet safely inside the vehicle.

Only a few ships allow pets and not all trains allow pets as well. Rules and regulations among the different states vary when it comes to being able to bring your pets on a bus.

Most cities have pet-friendly hotels. You can search for some on the internet. There are also many pet-friendly parks and beaches ideal for travelers who want to spend quality time and fun with their beloved pets.

When you travel with your pets, it is of utmost importance to always ensure their safety.

2008年8月14日星期四

Teach Your Dog to Stop Biting

If your puppy is younger than 16 weeks and are constantly nipping, it's normal behavior - young puppies mouth a lot. They mouth when playing; they also mouth to communicate their needs.

If your puppy starts mouthing, ask yourself these questions: Is he hungry or thirsty? Does he need to eliminate? Is he sleepy? Does he need to play? Remember, puppies nip when they feel needy (just like a baby cries).

If your puppy does not let up, ask yourself if he wants something, like an outing, exercise, or a drink. The following things can help you control mouthing and nipping:

1. If your puppy does not need anything and he still will not quit, crate or isolate him with a favorite bone. Do not scold your puppy as you isolate her. Calmly place the puppy in her area.

2. Whenever your puppy licks you, say "Kisses" and praise her warmly. Encourage licking by slathering your hands with a frozen stick of butter.

3. Withhold your attention when your puppy nips softly. Keep your hand still; withdrawing your hand is an invitation to play and nip harder.

4. If your puppy starts biting down hard, turn quickly, say "Ep, Ep!" and glare into her eyes for two seconds; then go back to your normal routine. If she persists, try spritzing yourself with Bitter Apple or affix a leash onto your puppy so that you can tug the lead sharply to the side. If
necessary, place her in a quiet area to cool off.

If you have a puppy who still nips when he is older than 16 weeks, you need to start curbing it now. Although nipping will continue, you need to make clear that it is unacceptable. Following are a few tips to help you:

1. Stop all challenge games. These games include wrestling, tug-of-war, chasing your dog around, and teasing. When you engage in these types of activities, you're sending the wrong message. These games teach dogs to clamp down hard on any object - a leash, the laundry, your shirt, or even your skin - and challenge.

2. Discourage all nipping, whether it's a bite on your arm or a nibble on your finger. Teeth do not belong on human skin, period.

3. Purchase a few weapons to use in defense, such as Mouth Spray, Bitter Apple spray, or a long-distance squirt gun. Never stare at your pup while you spritz or spray her; doing so turns an unpleasant result into a confrontational interaction.

4. Leave a leash on your puppy so you have something to direct her with and can avoid physical confrontation. If your dog's not wearing the Teaching Lead, place a short lead onto her buckle collar.

5. If your puppy begins to mouth, turn to him, use a lead or collar to snap her head from your body, or spritz the region he is nipping with a spray. Do not glare at him; otherwise, he will perceive your actions as confrontational play.

6. If he continues to nip, ask yourself these questions: Do I look convincing? Am I snapping or pulling? (Pulling encourages play.) Is my dog taking me seriously? You may need more training before you earn his respect.

2008年8月9日星期六

Tibetan Terrier Puppy And Dog Information

The Tibetan Terrier can be kept in an apartment as long as she can get frequent walks. This is a very active dog when outside. A properly fenced in exercise area would be ideal. She can be a barker so keep this in mind. She can do well with other dogs and pets but needs to be extensively socialized with them when young. Older, calm children are good, again, socialization early on would help. As a reminder, never leave a child unsupervised with a puppy or dog. It also should be kept in mind that these dogs are said to bring good luck.*Approximate Adult Size. The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the Tibetan Terrier is 14 to 16 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 18 to 30 pounds. *Special Health Considerations. Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Tibetan Terrier is no exception. Although considered a healthy breed, be on the look out for flea allergies, eye disease and eye irritation from hair 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 Tibetan Terrier has a double coat. The under coat is wooly and soft. The outer coat is long and profuse. She should be brushed regularly and it is said that she should be brushed while slightly dampened. Weekly baths are also recommended by some. She should definitely see a professional groomer occasionally.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 Tibetan Terrier can live between 12 and 15 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.*History. The Tibetan Terrier comes from the remote Himalayas in Tibet. These dogs were kept as pets and considered lucky. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1973.Some Registries:* Tibetan Terrier Club of America*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 RegistryLitter Size: 5 to 8 Tibetan Terrier puppiesCategory: Non SportingTerms To Describe: Intelligent, loyal, affectionate, sensitive, agile,*SPECIAL GOOD POINTSMakes a good watch dog.Makes an ok guard dog.Once considered lucky in Tibet.*SPECIAL BAD POINTSMay need obedience training.Does not like to be left alone.May be a barker.*Other Names Known By: Dhokhi Apso, Luck Giver, Holy Dog of Tibet*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

All The Secrets of the Amazing Quaker Parrot

The Quaker Parrot is more formally known as the Monk Parakeet (Myiopsitta monachus) and is native to the temperate areas of Brazil, and Argentina. They average a twenty nine centimeter length with a forty eight centimeter wingspan and an average weight of one hundred grams with females usually 10%-20% smaller than there male counterparts.Quaker Parrots are usually bright green with a grey to white breast. Its flight feathers are a brilliant dark blue that are very contrasted by its green upper body. They have a curved orange beak which is very common among parrots.Quaker parrots are very intelligent birds. Like most parrots Quaker Parrots are able to 'imitate' human speech and when kept as pets they will often times develop very large vocabularies. The Quaker Parrot was introduced to the United States from South America in the late 1960's to be sold as pets, many of these escaped into the wild or were purposefully released by bored pet owners. By the year 1995 it had colonized 15 states and holds a population in Florida believed to be 100,000 birds. Some debate, primarily in the United States, that feral Quaker parrots and harmful to crops and resident species, this however is an ongoing debate with few conclusive answers. If damage did occur it would most likely be light. Because of there intelligence and rather small stature Quaker Parrots make great small cage pets. They are also very popular as pets so more than likely your local pet store will have some for a reasonable price.Some interesting facts about Quaker Parrots:Quaker parrots are very social sometimes building colonies with one large nest. These nests can reach the size of a small car and are made almost entirely of sticks.Quaker parrot colonies have been found as far north as New York City, Chicago, and Rhode Island, but are usually isolated to the urban enclaves of these areas.The Quaker Parrot Lifespan is 15-30 years respectively, some say 15-25 years while others say 20-30 years, it's a wonder if a standard lifespan will ever be named.Due to the spread of the feral populations of Quaker parrots through the spread of demand for them as pets, they can now be found wild in Europe, Bermuda, Puerto Rico, Canary Islands and Japan.The Quaker Parrot is the only parrot that builds its nest out of sticks on tree or human structures instead of a hole in a tree.

2008年7月27日星期日

Horse Breeds - The German Oldenburg

The history of the Oldenburg horse dates back to the early 1600’s by achieving its name and fame through Europe’s Count Anton Günther von Oldenburg who was a renowned horseman and a great supporter of the breed.Three important events helped to shape the breed: the first stallion approved decreed by state lay in the year 1820 with the introduction of the register or origins in 1861, and the foundation of the two horse breeding societies by the Horse Breeding Act of April 9, 1897. These two were merged in the year 1923 and The Oldenburg Horse Breeders Society was formed. The breed refinement measures were introduced in 1935 with a thoroughbred stallion, Lupus xx and in 1950 by Condor. Due to the success breeder had with Condor, many breeders turned to the French Stallions around the end of the 1960’s. Furioso II was the first Anglo-Norman of modern breeding. This sire is held in the utmost regard. The French Anglo-Arabian stallion, Inschallah AA was used in Oldenburg in small doses with great success. A privately owned Oldenburg Stallion, Donnerhall, born in 1981 became one of the most successful sires of his generation in Germany. He holds the highest dressage breeding value index (271) of all stallions. He placed second among seventy stallions at his performance test and went on to become the DLG Champion in 1986. Donnerhall won more than 65 FEI Level and Grand Prix competitions and competed successfully until he was retired at the age of seventeen. His remarkable success as an international competitor and breeding stallion has made him one of the most successful dressage stallions in the world today. He has over 77 approved sons (all registries), 450 broodmares, 84 which are State Premium, and over 636 competition horses. In 1994 in Den Haag, he was a member of the gold winning team at the World Championships in Dressage and won the individual Bronze Medal. He is a member of the current European Championship Team and won the individual Bronze Medal. This horse has made a tremendous impact on the sport horse breeding world.The Oldenburg Horse Breeders Society is a division of the Verband der Zuchter des Oldenburger Pferdes, otherwise known as the German Oldenburg Verband or GOV. When receiving approvals for ones mares and stallions the rules of the German Breeding Laws apply. These rules are enforced and one addition has been made; in the event your foal or dam cannot attend the inspection because of illness, they will extend the timeframe for inspection of the foal for one year only. Progeny not inspected within the year of their birth can still be inspected and papered as yearlings as long as a veterinary certificate with the explanation of their prior condition which prohibited the foal from attending the inspection. Stallion InspectionsStallions must be inspected between the ages of two and four by calendar year. The GOV will no longer inspect stallions five years or older unless they have completed their 100 day test with the appropriate qualifying scores or they have met their performance requirements.The candidates must be out of Main Mare Book mares, or a mare eligible for Main Mare Book. This stallion must also come from and be registered by an approved registry. Broodmare InspectionsThis registry has much to improve on, and this is very critical to the breed. The reason the European registries are so successful it there is predictability in the progeny produced by well documented lines. The GOV relies heavily on statistics from the FN breeding books as well as good auction riders that in return give feedback on the young horses with respect to the temperament and rideability. Due to mares that have untraceable pedigrees and/or by stallions not bred as sport horses, such as race track thoroughbreds, one is never quite sure what they will get. Thoroughbred mares continue to get approved, but their quality must be high both conformationally and mentally. They must have flowing gaits and they prefer that the horse has competed in sport horse disciplines. There are four studbooks for mares, the highest being the Main Mare Book. Good quality mares with original or reissued registration papers from an accepted breed registry can be entered in the Main Mare Book. Premium AwardsFoals from Main Mare Book mares are eligible to receive a Premium Foal award. Only Main Mare Book mares are eligible for Premium Mare awards.The Oldenburg horses are well known for their mild manner, great conformation and an all around great sport horse. Used in many disciplines, mainly dressage and jumping.