Archive for July, 2009

A Few Tips To Help Your Housebreak Your Puppy

Housebreaking a dog or puppy is often the most stressful aspect of owning a pet. However, the process can be less challenging if you have a few tips to help you out. This article will give you pointers on dog potty training based around the concept of accident prevention rather than punishment.

Puppies are a lot like children in that their minds are like sponges, which is why most people begin obedience and potty training when during puppyhood. The main thing which you must understand before beginning the training process is that a puppy does have limited control of his bladder, so it is best if you admit to yourself that accidents will happen, and come to terms with the idea. A good thing you can do for your puppy is to buy him a crate or similar place that will be his own “personal” space. That way, if you’re unable to watch him for a time, the accident will be in the crate and not somewhere around the house where you may not notice for a while.

One of the best things you can do for your puppy (and your sanity!) is to develop a regular routine as soon as you can. Try to feed him, take him outside, and put him down for bed around the same time every day. This will get his “body clock” set to the routine and he will eventually learn to rely upon this, as long as you follow through on your part and keep the routine as constant as possible, at least until your pup gets a bit older and develops more bladder control and adaptability.

When an accident does occur, don’t get upset or hit your dog. If you didn’t catch him in the act, simply put him in his crate while you clean up the mess. There is no point in trying to punish him, as he will not know why he is in trouble. If you do catch him in the act, giving him a firm ‘No!’ will let him know you are upset. Immediately take him to the proper spot outside and praise him if he goes again.

Potty training your puppy can be a trying time, but a bit of patience and determination will see you through the process. Just remember: develop a routine and take your puppy outside about 15 minutes after meal time. Soon, you will find that training becomes even easier, at which point you’ll want to start training him not only for obedience, but also for using items such as pet stairs instead of jumping onto furniture. Pet steps are much better for your dog’s joints and reduces the likelihood of your dog developing arthritis or sustaining an injury from falling off of high furniture.

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Friday, July 31st, 2009

Pet Stairs: Not Only For Old Or Disabled Dogs!

In America alone, do you know how many households have dogs? About sixty three percent. If you think about it, that equals to about seventy million households!

Yes, there is no denying that dogs are our best friends. They constantly crave attention from their family and they enjoy being in the spotlight. Your cute little dog may be a young one now, but that does not mean you should not look into dog ramps and steps. What are we talking about? Let us continue further to tell you some information.

Every single dog out there, even those healthy ones are not dismissed from getting spinal or join injuries from jumping. In fact, many of those breeds that have short legs, long spines, overweight bodies or sensitive bones are at higher risk.

No matter what size of dog you have, small dog steps and large dog steps are available to aid your pet in ascending and descending. Keep a set next to your bed, couch, or porch to help him avoid repetitive, harmful impact on his joints and bones. Using pet stairs and ramps can not only prevent an already healthy dog from developing injuries or long-term conditions, but it can also promote healing and comfortable mobility for dogs with pre-existing conditions, such as obesity and arthiritis.

There are many stylish dog ramps and steps out there. If you have a breed, such as a Rottweiler or a Pit bull that is more prone to hip dysplasia, then this should be a must have in your home. Apart from hip dysplasia, it will also help those dogs that are prone to spinal and join problems, arthritis, bone wobblers syndrome, bone defects, osteopathy, bone tumors, diabetes, cancer and many other health issues. Vets know what is best for your furry friend, which is why they recommend the steps and ramps for that furry friend.

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Thursday, July 30th, 2009

Tumors in Dogs and Cancer in Dogs – Powerful Nutritional Advice you Need to Know

Many people have for years suspected that nutrients play a key role in our prevention, control and treatment of malignancies in dogs. Now, it is finally accepted by experts and scientists that it is not folklore but a truth. Experts are optimistic that nutrients can be effective measures in preventing and treating certain types of cancers.

When treating cancer, if micro nutrients are joining the treatment plan, the remaining therapies such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and biologic responsive modifiers, all become incredibly effective. Adjuvant therapeutics is the amalgamation of any nutrient used with other methods of anticancer treatments.

An extremely important metabolic consequence of cancer is Cachexia. This causes a continual decline in weight despite all of the nutritional requirements being met. Unfortunately, any dog that is inflicted with this condition has a shortened survival time and a decreased response to treatment. Metabolic changes of Cachexia have already taken effect in the dog before the condition is diagnosed.

There are three different periods of cancer Cachexia. In the first period, there are no noticeable signs of the disease. There are however, biochemical changes and alterations in the amino acids taking place. Entering into the second period of this disease, the dog will become anorexic, lose weight and have decreased energy. Now into the third period of the disease, the dog is weak, debilitated, and has lost protein and carbohydrate stores from their body.

Unfortunately, the physical effects of the cancer and the alterations in the metabolism, cause these dogs to waste away. It is the carbohydrate metabolism in these dogs with cancer, that has the greatest metabolic impact. Some scientists believe that a diet high in simple carbohydrates increases the amount of lactate produced. This excessive energy is then used by the host to convert the lactate. This is damaging for dogs with cancer.

The cancer is fueled by the carbohydrates at the expense of the host. Tumors usually utilize amino acids for energy via glycogens. Many important bodily functions become altered from this. The most significantly affected is the immune system, gastrointestinal function and surgical healing.

The host and the cancer cells both compete for the amino acids. If the diet cannot supply the need, the malignant process takes them from the host. High quality amounts of proteins should be provided. Amino acids like arginine and glutamine really benefit the host by helping the immune system and reducing gastrointestinal toxicity for dogs with cancer.

Loss of fat causes most of the weight loss in dogs with cancer cachexia. Dogs with cancer will benefit from reduced simple carbohydrates and increased fat in their diets. Alterations in the dog with cancer can be minimized with the addition of N-3 fatty acids in their diets. The adverse effects of radiation are reduced by these as well as them having an anticancer effect.

A dog with cancer needs to be assessed for what amount and for what type of nutrients they should be getting. Cancer cells can be regulated by Retinoids. These agents work great by themselves or in conjunction with other agents when treating certain types of cancers. Studies have shown a significant impact when they are utilized.

Vitamin C has the most potential in preventing malignant disease as well as in treating certain cancers. Vitamin C could be an alternative for overcoming drug resistance in certain cancer cells. It has been known to prevent cancers of the esophagus and stomach.

Vitamin E has the broad capability to inhibit mammary tumor carcinogens and colon carcinogens. It has chemo-preventative properties and works against certain malignancies. Studies have shown that dogs have received a complete remission and some a 50% reduction in tumor size.

Some minerals suggested as chemo-preventive or anticancer agents are, copper, zinc, magnesium, calcium, lead, iron, potassium, sodium, arsenic, iodine, germanium and selenium. Several amino acids have also been used as a basis for inhibiting tumor growth.

Another helpful enzyme is L-asparaginase. This has been used in treating lymphomas and leukemia in dogs. Another anticancer alternative is garlic extracts. This has been used on animals that have been subjected to carcinogens.

To reduce the chances of your dog getting cancer, feed them a holistic diet that is rich in fresh foods and supplements, and free from preservatives, additives and chemicals. All this will support the body and reduce the impact if they do get cancer. Turmeric or green tea should be added to their foods daily. These are anticancer herbs that have been used for centuries.

There are a number of signs that could point to cancer. These are some to watch for: picky appetite, lumps and bumps, sudden weight loss, sores that don’t heal, odors, lethargy, breathing difficulties, stiffness or soreness, loss of enthusiasm, difficulty urinating or defecating, and persistent discharges.

Fish oil (preferably salmon) and cold pressed flax oil are two rich sources of fats to add to the diet. It is hugely important to reduce the carbohydrates and increase the fats and proteins. Include in the diet anti-cancer foods like beetroot, watermelon, carrots, green and orange vegetables, shitake mushrooms, cauliflower, garlic, yams, sage, cabbage, apples, pears, peaches, plums, berries, parsley, broccoli, yogurt, fish, spleen, fresh thymus and extracts. Feed approximately 40% vegetables and 60% meat daily.

To increase the longevity of your dog, supplement their daily food with Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Co enzyme Q10, Omega-3 fatty acids, and digestive enzymes. The best diet for your dog is one that is made from fresh foods or home cooked foods. This will help prevent them from getting cancer. Nutrition is extremely important for preventing tumors. Feeding your dog the best diet will lengthen their lifespan incredibly. Thy food is thy medicine.

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Wednesday, July 29th, 2009

Cat Furniture Could Save Your Sanity (And Your Nose!)

Does the thought of a litter box make you cringe? Most people have the same sentiment towards litter boxes, as their reputation is a stinky and dirty one! Why not consider buying cat furniture to hide the kitty box?

A simple and effective approach to hiding litter box odor is to invest in a kitty condo/house. At the lowest level is a box with a slide out door to put your litter tray in. There is a small hole in the side for your cat to gain entry. The next level is a feeding area where you can keep your cat’s food elevated away from dogs or children. There is a play center in the middle and two sleeping platforms at the top. Also, there are multiple scratching posts in the formation. This is a great way to offer your cat everything he needs and help eliminate some of those cat box odors.

You may also find a piece of cat furniture known as a “bookcase climber,” which is a large piece of furniture with “step-like” segments that lead to hidden cubby-holes, sleeping areas, and play stations. While these can be great if you have quite a lot of room to spare, it can be overbearing if you don’t have a lot of room. If you don’t have a lot of space for kitty accommodation, you can look in to pet stairs, which come in a variety of sizes, colors, and styles. Some come with built-in compartments that are just wonderful for storage. You can find them in high-end fashionable wood, accentuated with molding, or standard carpeting.

A litter robot is something you may or may not have heard of before. It’s a practical solution to the burden of cat littler. It’s a ball-shaped, self-cleaning litter component. The litter is placed on the inside of the dome where a small entry hole leads to. Your cat has privacy while doing his business, and then the litter robot simply sifts through the soiled litter and deposits the waste into a plastic bag, which you can remove and dispose of at your leisure. It’s a very resourceful machine that can easily hide the musky litter-box smell and makes litter-box management much easier for the faint-of-heart.

Cat furniture is probably sounding more and more up your alley! You can find any of the previously mentioned cat furniture items online, and some may be available at a pet store near you. Those of you with dogs mustn’t forget them, either! You can find a huge assortment of dog stairs online. You can have your dog steps custom-built or simply purchase a pre-built model, which come in many colors and finish, including luxury wood or carpet, and even some with accenting molding!

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Tuesday, July 28th, 2009

Considering A Mastiff Puppy? Look A These Tips!

Caring for a mastiff can be the same as caring for any other dog; they need to be trained from young, have a good exercise routine, a good diet and must be groomed and cleaned regularly. Mastiffs can be by nature a very lazy breed and are very comfortable lying by the couch all day, every day. Because of this it is important that you teach your mastiff from a pup and give your mastiff a good routine. Their tendency of laziness is why Mastiff training should be very firm.

It is recommended to walk your mastiff on a daily basis and approximately twice a day to maintain your mastiff’s health and happiness. If you have a back yard then it is ok to walk your mastiff once a day as they can walk around the yard. But if you live in an apartment it is recommended to walk your dog at least twice a day so that they can get a regular exercise.

Mastiffs are big dogs and require a regular diet of quality dog food to maintain good health. Mastiff puppies should be fed roughly four times a day after they’ve been weaned onto puppy food. As your mastiff grows, you can gradually reduce the amount of times you feed him to once or twice a day. There is usually a guideline somewhere on the dog food package that estimates how much you should feed your dog based off of a weight scale.

The grooming process for a mastiff is pretty simple as they are short haired dogs that do not require a lot of grooming time. As they are also natural hair shredders it makes the process a lot easier as the hair is already loose. Like any other dogs, mastiffs have natural oils in their skin that helps them look after their fur. Thanks to these oils you will only need to bath your mastiff a couple of times a year.

Although they are very large, mastiffs are a gentle breed and can be very wonderful pets if taken care of properly. They have a wonderful attitude towards children, but naturally their size may not make great pets if your child is very young and can easily get knocked over by a grown mastiff. There are many different types of mastiffs, some of the most popular being bull mastiffs, English mastiffs, and American mastiffs. If you decide to introduce a mastiff into your home, you won’t be sorry!

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Monday, July 27th, 2009