Now You See, Now You Don't: Dogs Without Faces

The following article contains some wonderful photos. Follow the link provided or click on the title above to see the full article. You'll be happy you did!


by nobert soloria bermosa, Feb 8, 2009
Breed of dogs with exceptionally long hair that cover their face.
These breed of dogs are absolutely unique for you can hardly see their faces because they are covered with thick or long hair. Check these 12 peculiar breed of dogs.


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Is Your Dog a Superbrain or a Numbskull?

I found this wonderful article on Gomestic and thought I would share it! I hope you all enjoy it! Just follow the link here Is Your Dog A Superbrain or a Numbskull by Louie Jerome

A Great Article I Found Worth reading!

Well, as you all know I love dogs. I love to spoil my dogs and I love seeing other people with their dogs. In fact, I believe that how a person treats their dog is a reflection of what kind of person they really are. So, for those of you looking for something to give your dog simply because you love them, check out this article! Six Dog Treats Your Dog Will Enjoy

I hope all of you have a wonderful New Year and keep on loving your best friends!
- MrsT

Give an Old Dog a Home

There are rescue kennels and pounds all over the world, full of dogs and cats needing a good home. Christmas is a popular time for giving a furry friend a home. The tragedy is that so few mature animals are given a second chance at life. Puppies and kittens are always in with a better chance, probably because of the 'cute' factor.
Having given a home to a handful of adult cats and dogs, I can honestly recommend adopting a grown up rather than a puppy or kitten. Our present dog is ten years old and we took him in when he was seven; tired, hungry, flea bitten and nervous. He has blossomed into a magnificent animal and draws comment wherever he goes. He is the joy of our lives; always ready to play, good with children, loyal and well behaved. What more could you ask for?
There are distinct advantages in not introducing a kitten or puppy into your home. Certainly if you are prepared to take in a new animal then you are ready to invest some time in training and care, but younger animals need house training, lead training, general obedience training, not to mention the costs of vaccination, spaying or neutering, and constant vigilance to make sure they are not chewing up Grandad's slippers or teething on the legs of the grand piano. Older pets have usually been house trained and vaccinated beforehand.
The only disadvantage in taking in an older pet is that their 'shelf life' is shorter. You will not have so many years with them as they have already lived half their lives and sometimes in less then healthy circumstances. However, the love and gratitude you will receive from these furry companions far outweighs any drawbacks.
Be a friend - give an old dog a second chance.
Jan Gamm writes reflections on life with an emphasis on world travel. She has lived in many countries and traveled extensively in the Far East, the Middle East, America, South America and throughout the South Pacific. She writes for fun and for money whenever she can manage it.
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Be a Proud Owner and Show Off the Cute Dog Pictures

If you have a dog and is able to give you cute dog pictures as output, you should know that there are ways in the Internet that can help you out in making your dog more popular. This is possible though uploading your dog pictures in the Internet.
As an owner, you would want other people to know how attractive and cuddly your dog can be. Normally the dog pictures are used as computer wallpaper or displayed in the websites. You can also share the cute dog pictures by uploading it in the Internet. However, you should remember that there are many some pointers that you should follow before uploading any picture.
To help you have more desirable pictures, you should set a theme for the dog pictures. This will help you in making your dog gain more popularity and also to have your dog gain an identity. You can even set a story that will help your audience to be more interested in the pictures. In taking the pictures, you should enjoy your time as it is also a way for you to enjoy the time with your dog. Also, you should remember that being creative is necessary to make your dog look more interesting. It would also be needed that the pictures look good and has good quality. Blurred pictures should also be avoided since you would not need to share undesirable pictures of your dog.
One tip that you can have is to create a story like when your dog is taking a bath. This can be interesting and can even be made more colorful. You should simply have a good angle of your dog and snap a shot that looks good. Your dog can also show its different emotions and this can even more desirable to its viewing public. You don't have to worry about the audience since there are many people who want to view the pictures. You just have a twist in the picture that will get the attention of the public.
You should also learn that there are pointers that you should follow to make the pictures that you take more desirable. The quality, angles, and the subject in itself should already be interesting. You can use high angles but it would be better if it is taken the angle that is leveled with your dog. Once you have the pictures ready, you can get connected to the Internet and share to others what you have. [http://anamigo.com/]Dog Picture
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Ways to Spend Quality Time with Your Dog

by Veronicah, Aug 4, 2007
Dogs depend on their owner for companionship. Quality time spent with your dog is a relaxing and rewarding experience for you and your dog.

Take an early morning or evening walk with your dog. Stop and take notice of your surroundings just like your dogs does. You will become more aware of the little wonders that you may ordinarily overlook.
Spend some time grooming your dog. Dogs love pampering just as much as humans do.
Take your dog for a ride. Stop for a special treat along the way if possible.
There are many recipes for homemade dog treats. If time allows make some of these treats for your dog. If homemade goodies are not something you want to attempt there are dog bakeries in some areas or various online sources for special treats.
Curl up with a good book or DVD, let you dog lie in your lap or by your side as you read and stroke its fur. This can be relaxing for both of you. There are books that instruct you on how to massage your dog. That would be a book I'm sure your dog would like for you to read.
Reserve a portion of every day for play time with your dog.

Three Benefits of Neutering Your Dog

A decision that a lot of dog owners have to make when they first get their male dog is whether to have it neutered or not. There are some benefits of neutering your dog that can help you decide whether it is right for you. Your vet will also be able to provide you with more information about neutering should you require it.
1. Dogs that have been neutered will have a vastly decreased urge to mark their territory both inside and outside the house. This is one of the major reasons why a neutered dog can be a lot less stressful to look after!
2. Dogs that have been neutered will also tend to be a lot less aggressive. This is because removing the testicles of the dog means that it won't have huge amounts of testosterone flowing through its body which in turn makes it calmer.
3. Neutered male dogs are also a lot less likely to roam around trying to find a mate. This is a common problem with dogs that haven't been neutered, as they have a strong urge to try and find potential female mates. Neutered dogs rarely feel this urge - at least nowhere near as strong.
In most cases the owner of a neutered dog will find it much easier to look after their pet. This means less stress for the owner and dog which leads to a happier relationship. There are some downsides to getting your dog neutered, but these are far outweighed by the positives in most cases.
To learn more about all aspects of caring for your dog including training, health and grooming please visit [http://www.thedogclinic.com]The Dog Clinic. New articles and content are added daily! [http://www.thedogclinic.com]TheDogClinic.com
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How to Calm a Restless Dog

by Kristie Leong M.D., Sep 27, 2008
Is your dog constantly restless and bored? This can be a source of frustration for some dog owners who may become nervous themselves from dealing with their dog's excess energy. Here are some tips to help calm a restless dog and restore the peace in your home.

Are you the owner of a high strung or restless dog? Is your dog easily bored, hyperactive, and always looking for the next challenge? Dealing with a restless dog can be distressing for some dog owners particularly if their dog spends a great deal of time indoors. What makes one dog nervous and restless while another seems calm and content? Certain dog breeds seem predisposed to restless, high strung behavior. Some examples of these breeds are Border collies, Chihuahuas, Vizslas, and German Shepherds. These dog breeds have a strong need to be actively engaged in activity and become bored easily. If you happen to share your home with a dog that's constantly looking for action, what can you do to soothe the situation and return some peace to your home? Here are some ways to calm a restless dog:
Determine Why Your Dog is Restless
Although certain dog breeds have a tendency to be perpetually high strung and restless, if this is a new behavior for your dog, your dog could be in pain or experiencing discomfort. If this is not typical behavior for your dog, make an appointment with your vet to rule out medical causes for your dog's restlessness. This will give you the reassurance you need that you're dealing with a personality issue rather than a medical one.
Exercise, Exercise, Exercise
One of the most common reasons a dog becomes restless is a lack of exercise. Some dog breeds, particularly working dogs, need frequent exercise to expend nervous energy. A daily dog walk provides an opportunity for both of you to get your blood pumping and relieve the stress of the day. It's also a great way to bond with your dog. Another option is to get out a ball or frisbee twice a day for a little fast paced activity. If you live in an area where outdoor exercise is difficult in the winter, consider investing in a dog treadmill. It takes a little training to get your dog accustomed to treadmill walking, but once accomplished, many dogs enjoy the stimulation.
Give Your Dog More Social Interaction
Sometimes restlessness comes from boredom and a lack of social stimulation. Restless dog syndrome is more common in homes that have a single dog. When there is more than one dog in a household, the dogs tend to entertain one another. Dogs are social creatures by nature and need frequent social interaction. If you're not ready for a second dog, consider taking your dog to the dog park several times a week where he can freely interact with other canines. Another option is a day or two a week at a dog day care center. Most dog owners who take their dogs to day care centers say their dog is so exhausted after the visit that they sleep the rest of the evening.
Provide Your Dog with Stimulating Toys
While bones and balls will keep some dogs entertained, others need more stimulating toys to break their cycle of boredom. Two challenging toys are the hide-a-toy series where your dog is challenged to try to remove smaller toys hidden inside and treat toys such as the Buster cube where you can insert a dog cookie or other treat and your dog is challenged to reach the prize. To keep your dog from becoming bored with his favorite toys, don't leave them lying around. Hide them so you can reintroduce them later. This helps to preserve the novelty factor.
Keeping a restless dog calm can be a challenge but with a little planning you can restore the peace to your home and to your dog.

To read more tips from Kristie Leong M.D. click here https://www.triond.com/users/Kristie+Leong+M.D.

Puppies Are Cute

Dogs begin their emotional and physical development in the womb. It is important to watch what your pregnant dog eats and check to see that your dog is as comfortable and happy as possible. Playing is still important to the mother's well being. Ruff play is not recommended but careful play is. Using common sense about how much your dog can do. As long as she does not over due. She can be happy and healthy.
Check with your vet to decide what they can do. Everything the mother does affects the development of the fetus. The development of the pups is also affected by the position of pups in the womb. The pups in the middle of each horn of the uterus will more likely receive better nutrition than pups positioned else where. This can affect health and growth. The puppies in the womb may be influenced by the surrounding puppies. To protect the puppies before they are born. Make sure to have regular checkups.
If you have certain breeds it is even more important to watch their pregnancy because some dogs have more problems with birthing. Some breeds are too large for safely passing through the birth canal. Breeding may need to change for some dogs because of selective breeding. Some dogs such as the bull dog have trouble passing through the birth canal This is caused by a larger head. Dogs are wonderful. We all love our dogs and want the best for them. Dogs make us happy and are part of our family. We need to protect our dogs during their whole life time.
Learn more ways to train your dog. Sign up for a free newsletter at http://www.dogsgettrained.com We talk about paper training, crating and much more. Also you can take our six day course at http://www.dogsgettrained.com
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First Aid Kits For Dogs - What You Need

First-Aid-Kit
1. Adhesive Bandage (Elastoplast etc) 2.5 cm wide
2. Antibiotic Powder
3. Antiseptic Spray (blue, purple or pink). e.g: Chloromide or cetrigen spray.
4. Antiseptic Wash
5. Aspirin e.g.: 1/4 of a tablet per 10kg twice daily as required, but for no more than 3 days.(for pain relief).
6. Bucket or Elizabethan Collar
7. Cotton Wool (1 roll not balls)
8. Gauze bandage (cotton) 2.5 cm wide
9. Hydrogen peroxide 3% Solution
10. Iodine Solution (Betadine)
11. Liquid Tears
12. Paraffin Oil
13. Salt- To induce vomiting 3 teaspoons in half a cup of warm water or a teaspoonful on the back of the tongue.
14. Scissors
15. Syrup Of Ipecac- To induce vomiting 2mls per kilogram of body weight.
16. Thermometer. Normal temperature is 38.5c
Keep the kit in a cool clean place, in a portable case. Take it away with you. Wherever the dog goes, it goes.
First-Aid-Treatment
Fractures
Try to have someone help hold the dog and a muzzle may be necessary.Use a large piece of cotton wool and wrap it around and around the leg suspected of being fractured. Then use a plain cotton bandage or Elastoplast to wrap over the cotton wool. Be firm but not constricting. This will splint the leg satisfactorily for transporting to the vet.
Wounds
Any fresh wound must be treated with first aid, either by you first and then your vet or just by your vet. Depending on how deep and sore it is will determine the need for an anesthetic or sedation. Minor wounds, which do not require stitching, can be attended to by yourself providing you have the basic first-aid kit. You may need someone's assistance so that your hands are free, but do not attempt it if the dog is in too much pain. It is not worth saving money and putting your dog through the pain or you getting bitten. It is quicker and easier to sedate the dog and repair the wound without the dog suffering.
Why clean the wound? -
Prevent infection - which reduces pain and inflammation and it increases healing time. Dogs enjoy lying in sandy and garden areas, swimming and chewing on old bones that are full of bacteria. These provide an ideal way for an infection to enter a wound.
When you find a wound, cut or abrasion the first thing to do is:
- Trim away the hair as short as possible.
- Prepare a solution of an antiseptic wash (a solution means to dilute the concentrate. Dilute iodine with warm water until it is a weak tea color)
- Bathe the wound to remove debris like sand, grass, and hair.
- Always begin in the center of the wound and work outwards. Dispose of swab (cotton wool piece) after each time you reach the outer edge of the wound.
- Allow to dry or pat dry the wound with a dry swab.
- If a dressing for drawing out infection is needed apply now with a poultice and an elastoplast bandage (take care not to apply too much pressure).
- An Elizabethan collar may also be needed.
- If the wound is OK. to leave open, apply the wound sealer. This also helps keep flies away and deters the dog from licking.
- Licking the wound at this stage will not help. It would only introduce more bacteria into a clean wound and keep it moist which slows healing and aids bacteria growth. When a dog licks a fresh wound that has a lot of debris in it there is some benefit in having the wound cleaned, but not as much as in using an antiseptic solution.
- If, when you find the wound the infection has already become an abscess (puss) then you must trim the hair as explained earlier and then apply diluted hydrogen peroxide at a 3% solution. This will bubble up and clean up the abscess, then continue as a normal wound.
- Most abscesses will require veterinary attention as antibiotics are essential for healing and often surgery is required to repair the damaged area.
On a more serious note, there could come a time when you have to make the gut wrenching decision to put your dog down. For a detailed procedure of dog euthanasia and to help prepare you for the day, there is a tutorial at http://here-is-your.info/dog-training/when-to-put-a-dog-down.php
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How to Give a Calming Dog Massage

by Kristie Leong M.D., Dec 25, 2007
If your dog is anxious and high strung, he may benefit from a calming dog massage. Here's how to massage your dog to soothe him.
Is your dog nervous and high strung? One of the very best ways to calm an anxious dog is with regular calming dog massage techniques. By learning how to massage your dog in a manner that relieves stress and anxiety, your dog will be less likely to exhibit high stress, fearful behavior when around other dogs or family members. Here's how to massage a dog to calm him:
How to massage your dog: Time and setting for a calming dog massage
Choose an area of your home where you and your dog can be free of distractions for twenty minutes or so. If you have children or other dogs, keep them out of the room to help your dog relax. You can even play some calming, new age music in the background during your dog's calming massage.
How to massage your dog: Get into a comfortable position.
Have a seat on a couch or chair and position your dog in front of you in a sitting position between your open knees. Remove his collar after he's situated and set it aside. Gently pat his head and speak softly to him to encourage him to relax for the massage.
How to massage your dog: Begin your calming dog massage.
Start by moving your hands to gently rub the fur on your dog's neck in a rhythmic motion. Again, speak softly to him to comfort him. Gradually start to move the overlying skin on top of the muscles around with your hands. You should gradually feel your dog relax and further low his head.
As you feel your dog relax and respond to the massage, gently grasp the loose skin around his neck between your fingers and massage it over the muscles using a soothing, rhythmic motion. Gradually extend the massage forward towards his head and then in the direction of his back. If done properly, your dog will hold still and keep his head lowered. Spend time massaging the skin overlying his spine and around his ears using the same consistent movements.
A calming dog massage can be as long as you want it to be but should be at least twenty minutes in length to promote optimal relaxation. Always do you calming dog massage techniques in an area that's free of distraction where your dog feels comfortable and relaxed.
You can give your high strung pet a calming dog massage any time, but make it a practice to do it at least once a week or whenever your dog appears anxious and fearful. This is a great way to reduce your dog's stress level and control anxiety related behavior problems. Why not treat your dog to a calming dog massage?

PetCo Pet Photo Contest!

PetCo is having a Halloween Pet Photo Contest!
Enter our online Halloween Pet Photo Contest for a chance to Win or Vote for Your Favorite at PETCO.com!


Check it out! Do you have a great photo of your best friend in costume? Why not enter it to see if you can win? Don't have a pet but want to check out the photos and vote for your favorite? Go ahaed! Click on the text link above to enter and vote. Good luck and Happy Halloween!

Unique Dog Breeds

*A note from MrsT: Click on the title of this post to see the wonderful photos included in the original article!

by B Nelson, Sep 27, 2008
There are hundreds of dog breeds, and they are very unique, so it was hard to pick eight of the most unique dog breeds, but here they are.
There are hundreds of dog breeds, each slightly different than the others, but these breeds have very interesting features worth checking out.
Shar Pei
The face only a mother could love? I think not, this is a breed of dog, known for its' excessively wrinkled skin, and black tongues. The folds require special care to make sure fungus does not grow in the cracks. Puppies are far more wrinkled than adults. Their coat is very coarse to the touch. The dog in the photo is from Wikimedia.
Bloodhound

These dogs are famous for tracking humans. Their loose skin, long ears, and slobbery mouths, are all traits that actually help them to pick up a scent trail. They can even pick up a scent that is days old. As with many purebred dogs they are prone to some health issues, most noticeably stomach and intestinal problems, as well as eye and ear problems. The lovely dog in the photograph is from Wikimedia.
Rhodesian Ridgeback
These handsome dogs are often used for hunting as they are fearless. Their unusual trait is an odd parting of their hair along their backbone, creating a ridge. A clever photo, from Wikimedia, the dog is looking at a calender with another ridgeback dog on the photo.
Chinese Crested

Both these are the same breed, the first is the Powderpuff variety, the second is the hairless variety, who actually do have hair on their heads, tails and legs. Whereas some dog breeds have long haired, and short haired varieties, with these dogs, they are the same variety. Genetically some have hair and some don't and you must breed the two together to maintain breeding soundness, as breeding of two hairless dogs together will result in a 25% death rate in the pups. So most breeders breed a hairless with a powderpuff and get a litter that is half of each. These dogs are prone to teeth problems and often need their first set of teeth pulled out to make room for their permanent teeth. Photos from Wikimedia
Puli
These are medium sized dogs who are often used for herding. Like most herding breeds, they are very smart so need to be kept mentally active if they are not going to be used for this purpose. Agility is a great option for people who are not using the dogs for their intended purpose. This is a very old breed. Picture from Wikimedia.
Dachshund

This dog is not only noted because of its' unusual appearance, but its' name is often misspelled or mispronounced. Often called "Doxies" they may have short coats, long coats, or wire haired coats. They were bred for hunting rabbits and other vermin. Due to their odd shape they are prone to leg and back problems. This photograph is by Igor Bredikhin and is from Wikimedia.
Norwegian Lundehund
The photo looks normal enough but there are a few special traits in this dog, to start off, they have six working toes on their foot, instead of the normal four. You can see the extra toes on the dogs hind paws in the photo. They can tilt their head backwards along their spine, and can even shut their ears, by bending them forward. If that isn't enough, their front legs are able to rotate 90 degrees. You will note, they are not "hounds" the word "hund" means "dog". This photo is from Wikimedia.
Basenji
What makes this dog unique is that it is considered a "barkless" dog. They tend to "sing" rather than bark, or may simply be silent. They also have less smell than most dogs. Many people consider these two points to be great advantages, however it should be noted that these are sight hounds, dogs bred to hunt moving things. They may not be safe in homes with cats, rabbits, or even small active children. The picture is from Wikimedia.

Dachshund Dog Breed

The AKC first recognized the Dachshund nearly a century ago. The dog has been well adopted by North American culture and it is consistently ranked as one of the top five registered breeds. The Dachshund is a member of the hound family and easily recognized by its small size, long body, tiny legs and a pointed face.
The Dachshund has a long and interesting history. In the 15th Century, it was widely used to flush out other wild animals like the badger. Over the years, it became known that this dog had attributes of being friendly and devoted. Soon it became an adopted animal and widely became a pet in many European households. The dog is frequently entered in the competitive trials and shows both in North American and Europe.
The Dachshund makes a great pet and is suited for most families. Despite its size, it is very adventurous and bold. While it prefers the indoors as a pet, it also as an instinct for the outdoors and loves to dig and sniff. When outdoors, the dog does tend to have an independent character- it does have a habit of wandering off- but will always return. The chief reason the Dachshund makes a good pet is its temperament. It is a faithful dog and loves children. However, one does have to be careful when introducing small children which are unknown to the household. While not mean, the dog is quite protective of the family.
The dog also has a great awareness of strangers and does bark a lot. Despite its size, it does make a great watch dog and will instantly become aroused in the presence of strangers.
Upkeep and Maintenance
The Dachshund is an active dog and requires a far amount of exercise. While it does make a great apartment dog, it also prefers to be outdoors. Unlike the large dogs, the dachshund prefers to go for long walks on a leash. Over the decades it has been noticed that this breed of dogs is extremely intelligent. Thus, many owners love to teach this dog tricks and groom it for shows and trials.
The one minor negative of the Dachshund is its temperament and stubbornness. It does have a short attention span due to its increased energy. Sometimes it can be stubborn and simply refuses to listen. However, like most dogs, proper training makes the Dachshund a wonderful pet dog. Once acquired as a puppy, this dog will remain faithful forever and become a part of the family.
Like all dogs, some care of the dog is required to make it look nice. Grooming is only done once or twice a week. If you take the dog outdoors, then perhaps a bath once a week would not be a bad idea either.
Health Information
As a pet, the Dachshund can live for up to 12 and 14 years. Unlike many other dogs, the dog is relatively free of medical problems, except for one. Because of its long back, it is prone to problems of the spine or disc. Other rare concerns which do develop include diabetes, Cushing's disease, deafness, seizures and joint problems. Some dog experts recommend that after the age of 6, the eyes should be regularly checked. If the Dachshund is exercised regularly and fed appropriately, obesity should not be of a concern.
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How to Introduce a New Dog to Your Old Dog

by Kristie Leong M.D., Jan 1, 2008
Introducing a brand new dog into your household when you already have a dog can be tricky. Here's how to make sure the relationship between your two dogs gets started off on the right foot.
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Would you like to add a new dog to your home? Introducing a new dog can be tricky when you have another dog at home who's comfortable with his position in the pack. In order to avoid fights and incompatibility issues between the new dog and your established dog, there are certain steps you should take to make the introduction a new dog easier:
Introducing a new dog: Keep in mind the sex of your dogs
As a generalization, a dog will tend to get along better with a dog of the opposite sex. If you're introducing a new dog of the same sex, you may want to consider spaying or neutering the new dog before the introduction. Unfortunately, spaying and neutering may only reduce dominance behavior if the dog is spayed or neutered before a certain age, usually 6-8 months of age. If at all possible before selecting a new dog to bring home, see how the dog interacts with other dogs at the kennel or shelter where he currently resides. If he exhibits strong dominance behavior there, he'll likely display it towards your dog at home.
Introducing a new dog: Allow your dogs to meet on neutral territory initially
Dogs are much less likely to behave in a dominant or aggressive manner if they first meet on neutral territory. Have your dogs meet initially at a local dog park or a fenced in friend's yard. Let them play together and watch how they interact. Praise them both for good behavior.
Introducing a new dog: Keep your tone positive and friendly when the two dogs are together
When the two dogs are interacting in a friendly manner, speak soothingly and positively to them to reinforce their positive interaction. Your goal should be to make both dogs feel good when they're in each others presence.
Introducing a new dog: Give your original dog sufficient attention
When a new dog is introduced into the household, attention can sometimes be directed towards the new family member making your old dog feel left out. Give your original dog the same amount of attention and time that he received prior to the new dog being introduced.
Introducing a new dog: Keep each dog's belongings separate
Don't force the new dog to share a feeding bowl, water bowl, bed, or dog house with your original dog. Make sure each dog has his own supplies. Sharing food and water bowls can create unnecessary friction between the two dogs.
Introducing a new dog: Reinforce the pack order
Allow the dogs to determine their own pack order. Once a pack order has been established, reinforce it as much as possible. The dog higher in the pack should be fed first and given treats before the second dog. Don't adopt a sympathetic demeanor towards the underdog as this can destroy pack unity and potentially cause a dog fight.
Introducing a new dog: Be prepared for skirmishes
When you introduce a new dog into your household, some initial friction is to be expected trance. You can also break up a fight with a bucket of cold water poured on the heads of both dogs.
Bringing a new dog into the household requires a period of adjustment for both humans and animals but with a little patience and caution it can be the beginnings of a wonderful new relationship.

Dog Camp: The Ultimate Vacation for Dogs and Their Humans

by Kristie Leong M.D., Feb 7, 2008
Are you looking for a stimulating, yet relaxing, place to bond with your dog? Take a look at this unique camp for dogs.
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Could you and your canine use a vacation? Sometimes both you and your dog need to escape the hectic rat race for a few blissful days of rest and relaxation. Now, there's a way for you to do it as a team in an environment that's designed for the well being of both dog and human. The idea of camps for dogs and their humans has arrived and it appears to be thriving.
If you don't mind taking a trip to Sun Valley, Idaho, you can experience a relaxing, yet stimulating week of canine bonding and companionship at a special dog haven called Camp Fideaux. Sun Valley has always been a dog friendly area and this camp for dogs is no exception. You and your dog can sleep in pet friendly lodging and awaken to a stimulating alpine hike where you'll discover the stunning scenery that gives Sun Valley its reputation as being a little paradise on earth.
While Camp Fideaux may not be the only camp for dogs, it strives to be one of the best. Your dog will enjoy the enthusiastic greeting the canine loving staff gives him upon his arrival, while you'll appreciate the resort like atmosphere with all the amenities a human needs for comfort and rejuvenation. Some of the activities you can enjoy with your faithful canine companion at Camp Fideaux camp for dogs are state of the art dog training classes, dog massage services, dog walks, dog acupuncture, and even consultation with an animal communication specialist so you can better understand what your dog is thinking.
While many national parks and other hiking areas won't allow dogs on their trails, you'll have the opportunity at Camp Fideaux camp for dogs to take your four legged friend on long trail walks without being hampered by a leash requirement. You can drink in the beauty of the majestic Rocky Mountains while bonding with your four legged friend. After a brief rest and a hearty meal, explore the community of Sun Valley, home to a diversity of dogs and their devoted humans. This is a community known for being canine loving and pet friendly.
You'll discover that many of the outdoor cafes and local events such as concerts in Sun Valley welcome dogs. You and your pet will feel right at home in this canine friendly environment. The only problem is you or your dog may not want to return home after such a stimulating, yet relaxing, week of activities. Who knows? Maybe your attendance at this unusual camp for dogs will become a regular event.

Your Dog's Body Language

Dogs use their bodies and paws to express a variety of different things. Below are some examples and what they mean.
Dog crouches with front legs extended, rear up, and head near the ground: This is the classic play-bow and means simply "I want to play!"
Stiff-legged, upright posture or slow, stiff-legged movement forward: "I am in charge around here!" and "I challenge you." A dominant dog will use this posture to indicate assertion of authority and a willingness to fight for it.
Body slightly sloped forward, feet braced: "I accept your challenge and am ready to fight!"
Dog rolls on side or exposes underside: "Let us not argue" or "I am not a threat to you" or "I accept that you are in charge here." This is a submissive response to avert conflict. Many dogs adopt this posture in a fairly relaxed and contented manner when they are around their pack leader. When your dog rolls on his back for a belly rub, he is actually accepting you as leader of the pack.
Dog places head on another dog's shoulder or places paw on the back of another dog: "I want you to know who is the boss around here." These gestures are commonly used by dominant dogs, pack leaders, and dogs that have aspirations of becoming a pack leader.
Mouthing: This shows up in dog-human interactions as the dog taking the handler's hand in his mouth or, while walking, taking the lead in the mouth. Mouthing can be a serious sign of dominance challenging and shows that the dog does not accept the human as pack leader.
Dog places paw on master's knee: "Look, I am here" or "Pay attention to me." This attention-seeking signal has many variations. They include pawing the air in front of their master or sliding the head under the master's hand.
Hair bristles on back and shoulders: This is a sign of anticipated aggression. A ridge of hair bristling down the back is a sign that says "Do not push me, I am angry!" When the bristling extends to the shoulders it means "I have had it with you" and is a sign of an imminent attack.
Dog sits with one front paw slightly raised: This is another sign of stress but is combined with insecurity. It means "I am anxious, uneasy and concerned."
Dog rolls on his back and rubs it on the ground: This is sometimes preceded by nose rubbing where the dog pushes his face, and possibly his chest against the ground in a rubbing motion or rubs the face with a forepaw, from eyes to nose. They often follow feeding or occur as the dog's owner begins to prepare food. However they also can occur following or in anticipation of other pleasant activities.
Scraping the ground and ripping the turf with the paws: This is usually after the dog has defecated but may occur at other times. Dogs have glands on the bottom of their feet that provide each with a unique scent. What a dog is saying here is "I was here and I am leaving my calling card!"
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Can You Help Homeless Pets?

Please help this cause by clicking on the link provided at the beginning of this article. Thank you for helping out!



by B Nelson, Sep 18, 2008
It is easier than you think, you do not have to get out of your chair.

Well, actually you did, just by visiting this site! You see it is my goal to donate money to a local shelter every time somebody visits this site http://www.gomestic.com/Pets/Can-You-Help-Homeless-Pets.258161. Okay, not literally "every time" will I be running to the shelter and giving them money. I will let it build up. Then once a month I will dazzle them with dollars. The money will not be given in my name, it will be given in honor of the visitors to this site. It is my intention to post how much accumulated from the previous month and post in the comments so you can see what the donation was, and I will let you know what shelter the money went to. More about that below, but first let me show you some drawings as a way to thank you for visiting, and to give you something worthwhile to share to others so they might come here and WE can donate even more to help the homeless pets.
In case you didn't guess, this is a bunny. When most people think of getting a pet rabbit they do not think of checking their local animal shelter. However, animal shelters do get rabbits relinquished into their care. Some shelters adopt the rabbits out with the same cage they came in for no extra cost than the adoption fee. Rabbits make good pets for somebody who does not have the time for a cat or dog. I actually find them more enjoyable than hamsters, they are less apt to bite, and sleep during the night.
Small breed pups, particularly of non-shedding breeds, like this Shih Tzu, are high in demand. One thing to note here is that you should never buy a pup from a pet store. Although they are cute, and might make excellent pets, the purchase of them condemns other dogs to live in squaller. Parent dogs are kept in small cages, breeding constantly to make more pups for the stores. Little regard is taken towards genetics or mental health, the goal is to produce as many pups as possible, for little expense. Most pet stores will deny using these sources, known as "Puppy Mills", but who else would sell to a pet store? Certainly not a reputable breeder. Occasionally shelters do get small breed pups, a person can leave their name on a waiting list or consider adopting an older small dog. Otherwise it is advisable to seek a reputable breeder if you are looking for a small breed puppy.
In most areas large breed adult dogs are the prevalent dog in the canine adoption facilities. Often people get them as cute pups but forget about socialization or training. The dog grows up, and is no longer cute, or manageable, and is then dumped at a shelter. This is not true of all shelter dogs. I worked in a shelter for several years, we did not put the unruly or unsafe ones up for adoption. Lots of really nice dogs were turned in simply because people were moving and could not take the dog with them. For people with children, a well socialized older dog is a smart choice.
CATS!!!! The number one thing in any animal shelter is bound to be cats. Many owners fail to spay or neuter their cats and allow them to roam uncontrolled. Owners often do not claim their lost feline, and sadly shelters are often overrun with strays. Old cats, young cats, big ones, small. Cats hold a soft spot in my heart. I currently own six. Two who were left behind by their previous owner, one whom we had from before we moved here (I had adopted her as an adult cat), and three rescues. The rescues were born wild and trapped and tamed them. Two are neutered and the third soon will be. Cats have the misfortune of being cats. One of my kitties, who has since passed away, was adopted from a shelter, the reason she was at the shelter was because her owners had her declawed, and after she was declawed she started to become a nervous biter, a common side effect from declawing. So basically she was unwanted because she was a cat. How many others are dumped for being cats? Probably thousands. Before adopting any pet, know what you are getting into.
Yes, sometimes shelters get horses, goats, pigs, lizards, and birds. You just have to ask.
Now back to the money. This site gets a tiny amount of money from advertisers every time somebody visits. Not enough to retire on, by any means, less than a cent per hit, but it will add up. You can see the date the site was published, sometime in Sept 2008, right? Well that means the first donation will be middle of October, or middle of November more likely. So keep a look out.
YES!!! I do donate my own money as well, in fact when I was better off financially I donated art works to shelters to use as fund raisers. Now I live in the middle of nowhere (in Canada), which is why I have not said which shelter I will donate to, depends which city I need to go to first. But I will let you know, you have nothing to loose, you spent no money while visiting this site did you? I asked for no donations.
I do hope you can spread this link around by what ever means you have, e-mail, Digg, Del.ici.ous, StumbleUpon, Reddit, or whatever else.
I have not tried this before. I hope it works. Remember I get less than a penny per hit, so it is going to take a lot of hits, but I have faith in the Internet animal lovers of the world. One more thing, please take the time to donate to your own local shelter if you can.

Think Before You Choose a Dog

DOGS
I often wonder if other dogs think poodles are members of a weird religious sect. Rita Rudner
Do you want to improve your life in a number of ways? Then get yourself a dog.
The medical profession has proved that owning a dog will lower your blood pressure and cholestrol, and lighten your stress levels. You will recuperate quicker after an operation or serious illness if you have a dog to talk to and that will wag its tail while you stroke it. Having a dog should reduce the number of visits you make to the doctor and give you a sense of mental well-being.
It has been proved that permitting the elderly or the sick to pet an animal brings huge rewards. Somehow the uncritical attention you receive while stroking a pet will do wonders for your health, both physical and mental.
Now you have decided, you must decide what breed of dog would suit your lifestyle best. Do you live in a small flat or on a large farm? This will be a consideration.
There are over a hundred registered breeds of dogs. Here are some of the more popular.
Labradors are versatile dogs. They are known for their ability as guide dogs. Their affable personality combined with a gentle, intelligent, energetic good nature is a perfect combination. They crave attention, are easy-going with strangers so that they pose no threat to people encountered while going about their daily duties. They are excellent retrievers, and enjoy holding objects, even hands and arms in their mouth. They are wonderful family dogs, and are highly protective of their territory.
German Shepherds (also known as Alsatians) were originally used in sheep and cattle herding. They are intelligent and train easily. They are used in the military and police and as guide dogs. They are great pets and very protective of their owners.
Boxers are playful and energetic. They are perfect as children's pets because they have an extended puppyhood and are not considered to be adult until they are three. They are known to be obedient and have strong personalities. It is advisable to start their training as soon as possible.
Rotweillers were known to have been used by the Romans as watchers for the cattle. Because of their incredible strength and intelligence they have been used as police and military dogs. They are fearless and frown when they are alert. They are active and playful.
Poodles are excellent companions and are loyal. They are quiet but require more effort in training than other breeds. Maintenance can be tedious because of their curly hair.
Dachshunds - also known as sausage dogs - enjoy chasing and hunting. They are playful and loyal and love to chase any small animals in sight. They have keen senses.
Beagles have a strong sense of smell and are used for hunting. They are good-tempered, but training could be a problem as they are strong willed and stubborn.
This covers only a few of the more popular breeds. There are many pavement specials who will give you years of pleasure and they can be less prone to sickness than the pure breeds.
I do suggest that you consider all aspects of the dog you choose and not take it into the family home because it looks such a cute puppy! Remember, it is a long term relationship.
Do you fancy obtaining a puppy with all the complimentary training problems, although you will have a stronger bond with a puppy you have reared from about 10 weeks. But if you don't fancy getting up nights, having your Persian carpet soiled and your furniture gnawed, perhaps you should settle on an adult. It may take longer to bond, but once this has happened you will have a friend for life.
When you bring the puppy home, introduce it to all the members of your family to familiarize it with its new housemates.
The question of naming your puppy is a serious business. It's name must be easily recognized so should not be more than two syllables long.. Don't give is a funny name that means something to you. You will feel a fool when you have to call the dog. Be careful that the name does not sound similar to basic commands like 'no' or 'down' . It is suggested that you get to know your pet before giving it a name. This should avoid mistakes.
Don't be in a hurry to choose a permanent spot for the bed. A dog has definite views about where it should sleep, so give your new pet time to explore the house and find its favourite spot.
A puppy will have to be monitored for its first few weeks in your home. It will need to be taken outside on a regular basis to teach it where to do its business. It should have a personal bed that is always kept in the same place. When it starts to chew your furniture, give it a face-cloth that has been rolled up and kept in the freezer. This replacement for whatever it is demolishing will ease any pain from teething and distract its attention away from forbidden objects.
You may find it useful to take it for puppy training if you have any doubts about your competence to perform this important task yourself, or feel you don't have the time. Choose your training instructor with care and make sure you will be allowed to take part in the sessions.
It will need to have regular vaccinations to prevent sickness or possible death from the many diseases than can attack a dog
You must not overlook the many services that can be provided by a dog. Assistance dogs serve a vital part of many people's lives. They are not only 'tools' that assist a deficiency but friends who provide companionship for the duration of their lives.
These assistance dogs fall into a number of categories.
Guide dogs who assist the visually impaired
Hearing dogs who are specially trained to nudge their owners when they hear certain noises such as telephones, doorbells and hooters.
Mobility assist dogs help pull wheelchairs and carry light equipment for their owners in backpacks.
Seizure alert dogs are trained to hit a button that contacts assistance in case of a seizure or cardiac attack. They do not leave their owners' side.
Psychiatric service dogs provide an emotional security blanket to those who may have mental illnesses and phobias. They also help autistic people stay focused.
Finally there are combo dogs who are trained to assist those with multiple disabilities.
There is a great deal of controversy nowadays about the quality of pet foods. (This industry generates about $40 billion yearly.) There is little regulation over the manufacture and labels are confusing. For instance, what are meat by-products? Are they bone scrapings, cartilage, tallow andor some unthinkable items? (I will be happy to email you an article setting out the possibilities, or you could go to http://www.petfoodaudit.com)
And, of course, you will want to ensure that your pet and your home are kept free of fleas. With a little effort on your part, this should not involve throwing out all your furniture, including carpets and curtains, and starting over from scratch. There are a number of products obtainable from your vet that kill off fleas and ticks efficiently. They need to be applied on a regular basis. The dog can also be bathed and dipped.
It is not enough to love your pet. They also require exercise on a regular basis, especially if they are of the larger breeds. Do you have the time to take them for regular walks, in a park, or in and around your property?
These are all necessary considerations before you rush out and buy a dog. A pet is a long term investment. But, for me, no trouble or problem is big enough to make me get rid of the plethora of dogs and cats we own and have owned throughout our lives.

Dogs Are Family

Do you love your dog? It's a simple question. Yes, or No. Let me be clear here. I love mine. Do you leave your dog outside? Do you go out to check on him only once in a while? Why is that? Do you think your dog is just an animal and doesn't deserve to be inside your house with you? Maybe you should look in your mirror with a pair of honest eyes. How would you feel if your family(or pack, if you prefer) put you outside of the house where you live? Think about it. I know that some will not understand that question. If you must put your dog outside, give him a doghouse, a place he can call his own. Don't put him on a chain. If you must contain him, use a kennel. They are cheap and easy to use.
Dogs are noble creatures. Always have been; Always will be. They deserve, from you, nothing else but your best, in thought and deed. They are loyal. It is your responsibility to provide for them, not just food and water, but love and kindness, praise when deserved and counseling where required. When they are pups, you must teach them your rules for living with you. You show them how to live in a house and keep it clean, how not to chew on important things and how not to bark unless it's necessary. They learn these rules, slowly sometimes, but willingly. You probably need to learn more about them, too. They have good moods, and bad ones. They have a sense of humor and they love to play. But they also know that there is a serious side of life. Dogs understand that. They seem to have a sense of when you or members of your family need to be cheered up. You should spend more time watching them interact with you and your family, because they are part of your family, too.
Ever since dogs have been domesticated, they have striven to learn about us humans. Dogs are natural voyeurs. They watch everything. Dogs have a special interest in the leader of your family, the "alpha", so to speak. If you pay attention, you'll notice that they follow you around and watch what you do. The nature of their curiosity is unknown to me, but it is there. I have no doubt about the intelligence of dogs. The question is, what are they after? What do they want? If you look in your heart, you might find out! My dogs live in my home with me and are a necessary part of my family. I have striven to learn about them. In the last twenty or so years, They have taught me how to be a better human being. For that, I will always be grateful.
Jim Hall is a Caveman from another millenium. He is an aspiring author and novelist wanna be. Writing for him is a change of character as well as occupation. Bear with him and he will grow and develop into a writing butterfly after his metamorphosis. He once was a carpenter caterpillar until he entered the chrysalis stage. Breaking out of the cocoon of a previous career is hard work but rewarding work. Like a butterfly, look for great things to come. You never know!
Find him in the Ezine Articles Author area. The sales pitch is he is eager to write and he needs cash. He is fairly literate and somewhat well read. Carpenters can read, you know!The real plus here is he is not bound by the conformity and whims of conventional thought. To him, functionality is beauty. If it works well, it's beautiful. It doesn't have to be pretty.
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