If you have a pet, then you treat it like a part of the family. And, as a part of the family, you want the best care for them that you can find. Have you ever thought of natural remedies for your pets?

Even medicine for pets can have side effects. Just like humans, we want to minimize the side effects while they are getting well. One way to do that for your pet is to opt for natural remedies to start with.

Maybe you don’t know of any natural remedies. We are going to help you with that. But, check with your veterinarian first before using any non-medicinal treatment.

Pet Remedies

* Skunk smell – Pets like cats and dogs can get into a lot of trouble while exploring in the woods. And, they do like messing with skunks. When your pet gets sprayed they will be stinky. One way to help get rid of the smell is vinegar and water. Combine vinegar and water together and rub it all over your pet. Continue to pour it on and rub in until the odor is gone. Wear gloves to keep the skunk smell off of you.

* Ear mites – It is important to keep the ears of pets clean. If you do notice mites in their ears, apply a mixture of Vitamin E and almond oil. Squeeze a few drops into their ear and massage it in. To be sure you have covered the entire ear, use cotton tip applicators to clean all areas of mites. Applying mineral oil can help keep mites away.

* Bad breath – Yes, pets can have bad breath. To stop the odor, brush their teeth. Also feed them carrots (if carrots are part of their normal diet) to help clean their teeth.

* Itchy skin – Stop the urge to itch by giving your pet a bath in cool water. Add Epsom salt to the water to further help your pet find relief.

* Insect bites – Pet skin can become red and inflamed from insect bites. To stop them from scratching, make a paste of baking soda and water. Apply that to the affected areas.

* Urinary infection – Any infection like this is caused by bacteria. One way to kill off some of the bacteria is to increase the acidity in the urine. Feed your pet citrus juices like orange and cranberry (good for humans too) to help reduce their discomfort and the infection.

* Car sickness – Don’t feed your pet before travel. Food in the belly and motion can make them sick. Also, try putting your pet in the front seat. When they can see where they are going they can orient better. Crack the window to let in fresh air as well.

After using your remedies, always visit the veterinarian for follow up to see if your methods are working.

When you decide to move, you don’t have to leave your pets behind. But, if they have never had to leave home before it could be an ordeal for them. Here are some tips to help you get your pet ready for moving day.

Pets can be stressed over moving just like people. How can you tell? Your pet may refuse to eat or be more nippy than usual to you and others. Recognize these signs and try to keep your pet calm. Take breaks and play with them. Leave their belongings until last in your packing so they can have something familiar around them.

Here are some more tips to help you go from point A to point B.

* Change identification – You will have a new address and your pet’s collar (if applicable) needs to reflect that. If they get away at a rest stop or run loose as you haul boxes in at your new place, you want those who find him to be able to find you. Include your cell phone number.

* Buy a pet carrier – It is not safe for a pet to run free in a moving car. A pet carrier keeps them safe. Plastic ones allow the pet to see out of the door without the possibility of getting tangled in the sides like the wire ones. Introduce your pet to the new carrier by placing it in their area several weeks before the move.

* Visit the vet – Some pets get motion sick. If your pet has never left home you might not be sure, but it is better to be safe than sorry. Get medication for it just in case. The vet can also suggest ways to calm your pet on long rides.

* Make frequent stops on the trip – Pets can get just as restless as children. Make regular stops at rest areas to stretch your legs and to give your pet a bathroom break. They can work off some nervous energy from being pent up in the car.

* Keep them comfortable – Put a familiar blanket and toy in the pet carrier so your pet will feel at home. Look in the door so that they can also see that you are still with him.

* Plan your sleeping arrangements on the trip – All hotels are not “pet friendly.” Find areas where you can keep your pet with you in the room. This way you don’t have to drive all night or leave your pet in the car overnight. In hot areas, pets have been known to die from heat exhaustion in cars.

* Keep pet safe as you move – Tie your pet up in the yard or on the porch while you move in. Afterward, let them walk around the house and get comfortable with their new surroundings.

Are you moving? Prepare your pet for the trip too.

Pets have a different life expectancy than humans. Depending on the pet you choose, it may outlive your children. Learn how to go about explaining the loss of a pet to your kids.

Death is a hard issue to deal with and explain, especially to kids. But, their first experience with death often begins with their pets. Even though your pet is okay now, learning how to deal with death is not a bad idea.

Kids mature at different ages. They may not always understand the concept of death. Here are a few tips to help you prepare what to say to them.

* Be honest – Kids can see through a lie. Worse, lying can cause them to misunderstand the concept of death. This will create a bigger problem later. Use terms that they can understand but tell the truth.

* Explain what happened – Younger kids might be satisfied with the answer that kitty was sick and is no longer with us. Older kids might need a bit more of the story. Tell them that animals have a different life cycle and die from certain illnesses or accidents. This type of explanation prevents kids from transferring what happened to their pet into a scenario involving their parents or siblings.

* Visit the vet – Being a professional, they may be able to help you and your child with the explanation of your pet’s death. If the pet was put to sleep at the vet, allowing them to see the pet one last time could also help them understand what has happened.

* Hold a burial service – A burial helps to put closure on the subject. Children may even want to help place the pet in a small wooden box or sheet and dig the hole. Let them say words concerning what they loved about their pet. Join in as well to make the service complete.

* Discuss the events – Some kids will be sad afterwards. When they want to talk, be ready to listen. It could help your child to cope and recover from the trauma of losing their favorite friend.

* Put on your game face – Many younger kids enjoy time with their pets but have not learned to be attached through love. They might pick up that something is seriously wrong from the way that you are handling the loss. Keep your spirits high so they will not be saddened.

* Prepare for some repercussions – Depending on how long you have had the pet, kids can suffer grief. This can manifest as poor grades in school, acting out at home and crying. Encourage them to vent their feelings.

Losing a pet can be devastating for everyone in the family. The first experience of loss for kids is often through the loss of a pet. Learn how to explain what has happened in a positive way.

Have you ever owned a pet? If the answer is no, here are some choices for your first animal friend.

Most people can remember their first pet from childhood. Kids who get pets during their childhood learn to socialize with others at an early age. But, some wait until they are adults before they have their first pet companion. Either way, there are certain pets that are better suited to your age and maturity level.

First Pets for Kids

When buying pets for children, consider that some children might like the idea of a pet but not the pet itself – especially if it is big. It could seem threatening to them. For any child, choose a baby pet if you can. Then, the pet can grow up with the child.

* Fish – Even small kids can learn to feed, clean and care for their pet. Fish don’t need much attention beyond feeding. Choose fish for kids who are at least school age who have learned not to grab at things like fish swimming in an aquarium.

* Gerbils – They are more amenable than guinea pigs. Kids can watch them play and learn to feed them. Again, they are best for children who are at least school age who can learn to handle them with care and also feed them properly.

* Puppies – Introducing kids to new pets when the pet is a baby is helpful to them both. Kids learn to touch them with gentle hands, walk them and learn how they interact.

* Frogs – Little boys often like these a lot. They can watch them hop around and listen to them croak. Frogs often eat live bugs so kids can spend time catching some and watching their slimy pet eat.

First Pets for Adults

With adults, pet choice can be a little more flexible because of the maturity level. One thing to consider though: How much time do you have to devote to a pet?

* Cats – Cats make great pets for homes where the owners have to be out for at least part of the day. Some breeds like to cuddle and others can do without it. Either way, cats are generally self-sufficient and don’t mind being left alone for longer periods of time as long as they have food and water.

* Snakes – They like to slither but can make good pets for people who don’t want to have to run behind their pet to give them exercise. Snakes sleep and eat. Occasionally you can handle them but they don’t mind being alone. The only drawback: they like to eat live food.

* Dogs – The breed you choose will depend on your activity level. If you don’t have time to housebreak them, choose an older dog from a shelter. For busy people, a dog that doesn’t need much exercise is ideal. If you are active, choose a dog that can keep up with you.

Choosing a pet takes research and planning, especially for your first pet. Consider age, time commitment and activity level of the soon-to-be owner.

Answer: No, but it depends.

Are small dogs good with kids? Most people can’t seem to come to a consensus about this question. People who regularly place rescue dogs with adoptive families do not believe that children are good for small dogs. On the other hand, some people believe that some small dogs are good with kids. Both points are valid. Let’s discuss each opinion separately.

The people who believe that small dogs are not suitable for kids see it from the small dog’s perspective. These people believe that a child could easily harm a small dog by acting like the dog is a toy and not a breathing and living creature. Small dogs can attack a child just as much as large dogs can. As far as the safety of the child is concerned, the injuries from small dogs would likely be minor compared to the possible injuries caused by larger dogs.

Some parents believe that their child is mature enough and “dog friendly” enough to enjoy the company of a small dog. Most of the time, these parents are wrong. Breeders and adoption agencies will often refuse families with children younger than seven or eight years of age. They do not think that it is in the best interest of the dog, which could easily be traumatized by living with small children.

People believe small dogs are safe for children because they are little.  Many children do not realize their own power and strength as they are still growing up. They are simply not aware of what little effort it takes on their part to accidentally and unintentionally kill a small dog.

On the other hand, some people agree that certain breeds of small dogs are safe for children. Such small dog breeds include: beagles, terriers and collies. These dogs normally behave just fine around children and do not pose any kind of threat. However, you should avoid the biggest small dogs and toy breeds such as Chihuahuas for the sake of the dog.

In order to keep both child and small dog safe, you must monitor both the child and the dog at all times. If you can’t watch them both, place the dog in a safe room or in a crate away from the child. With proper behavioral training and enough exercise, a small dog can learn to adapt and fit in with the family. Therefore, it’s possible for a small dog to be good with kids.

A note of caution: parents must warn their children to never put their face in front of a dog. Dogs can get spooked and snap, which could result in severe medical injuries, no matter how big or small the dog is. Small dogs are not typically good for kids in the long run and they are not the smartest choice for both the dog’s and child’s safety. It is best to research all of your options first and determine why you really want a small dog as opposed to a big dog. Perhaps you shouldn’t get a dog at all…?

Lily was a happy girl. A host family took after the puppy mill where he was a farmer must go. Apparently, it has not worked well in the Labradoodle breeding program. His family home, took a month to clean and repeatedly before being released for approval.

When I read it was pink. I thought it was beautiful, but it turns out he was sick. A flea infestation, malnutrition and extreme again pink coat. It took months for high quality dog food and hygiene products for Lily, her natural color back to white sand beach.

Lily, while improving health, I wrote in obedience training. Lily had some bad habits. I do not think it was a house across from his nursing home, or even a family lives, so they do not know the ropes. He was nervous, not when it is called, left, and not to sit on command. But worst of all, Lily was a biter. If these new people who met approached them, circling around and bit his thigh. ” Looks like fun, biting his buttocks, but he was serious. I knew I could get into trouble, sometimes shocking, and may lose even if it can prevent a bite.

Lily’s adoptive mother told me that the excellent dog training in Sarasota, but lived far away. So I asked the pet store and they sent me to a place to park the trainer, obedience training the dog in the room.

I wish I could say, Lily was a good student. To get along with other adult dogs and puppies, but his attention was very limited. I assumed it was rescued dogs, I knew that often require an extraordinary amount of attention and care, before settling down, so I had reasonable expectations for the training of the dog. Dog trainer to understand the needs of dogs and has survived good suggestions for the formation of Lily and the general improvement in their behavior.

Some dogs need more than one session of obedience training. I thought it useful to use a variety of techniques, training and trainers. Dogs must adapt to adulthood typically six months to a year in their new home, especially if their first years were difficult. That was certainly the case with Lily. Two years ago I accepted. Fits like a charm. I still can not come, but it’s better to leave. She does not bite, why not give them the opportunity. Above all, an admirer and a member of the family of plush.

The other day a boy Dog Walker told me how she was brutally Basset Hound on a leash, so he had no dog training, and Leo Leo will not form. I think not. Dog obedience classes are not magic, do not become a dog Lassie, but it can make the difference between a painful tear and a relaxing stroll.  David Ramsey is an author of Majon International, a global marketing business on the Internet more popular on the Internet. Learn more about Dog Training Works http://www.secretsdogtraining.info

Getting to know your dog starts by getting to know its breed, and that includes getting a better idea about its appearance, personality, and health requirements. Here’s what you need to know about the Pomeranian:

One of the most fascinating aspects of this breed is that in its much earlier and larger incarnations it was used in Lapland and Iceland for pulling sleds. Eventually, the Pomeranian moved on to other regions along the Baltic Sea. At this particular time, the breed was still used as a working dog but then it started to increase in popularity as a family pet. The name given to this dog, which was originally Pommern or Pomore, means “on the sea.”

The Pomeranian was introduced into English nobility. While somewhat popular, it became even more so after Queen Charlotte’s granddaughter, Queen Victoria, returned from Italy with her new furry friend. Although the appearance was much the same, the earlier varieties of the Pomeranian were actually larger than what we see today.

This dog belongs to the Spitz family, which includes other breeds such as the Samoyed, Schipperke, and even Norwegian Elkhound, which surprises many people as they are all considered “toy” breeds due to the small size. Over time, breeders were able to fine-tune the Pomeranian, which led to a much better coat and smaller size. In addition, breeding experimentation provided a greater selection of color while not interfering with the breed’s strong but sweet temperament.

Physical Appearance

Following the American Kennel Club’s standards for the Pomeranian, the average weight is between 3 and 7 pounds and height is 8 to 11 inches. The appearance of the breed is quite distinct, having a wedge-shaped head. The result of the small body and head is a look very similar to that of a fox. In addition, the Pomeranian has small and high set ears and a tail that curls over the back while being held tall.

Although all of these characteristics make the Pomeranian the cute dog it is, the coat is without doubt its pride. In fact, this dog has two coats. The first is the soft, thick, and fluffy undercoat while the second is the straight and course overcoat. Every year, the male dog will shed the undercoat, as the female goes into heat, once a litter is delivered, and if experiencing too much stress.

As mentioned, breeding has resulted in a wide range of colors and color combinations – 13 in all. These options for the Pomeranian include:

Black
Black and Tan
Blue
Blue and Tan
Chocolate
Chocolate and Tan
Cream
Cream Sable
Orange
Orange Sable
Parti-color (typically white with other colors)
Red
Red Sable
Sable

In addition to the standard 13 colors for the Pomeranian, the American Kennel Club also recognizes the following:

Beaver
Brindle
Chocolate Sable
White
Wolf Sable

For the Pomeranian to fall within the standards set by the American Kennel Club, the dog should be well proportioned. This means the dainty head cannot be too large or small, but must balance well with the body type. Additionally, the Pomeranian’s legs must be proportionate. In fact, even the breed’s expression is to display alertness, intelligence, and pride.

Temperament and Personality

Like the Chihuahua, the Pomeranian does not realize it is a small dog. With a serious bark (or yelp as some may say), the dog is actually a great watchdog. This breed loves its family, enjoying good, quality cuddle time. However, it is also an energetic and agile dog that is relatively easy to train.

Because of the small body size, the Pomeranian makes a great pet for people without a yard or those with a small yard. However, because this breed also enjoys exercise, it makes a great pet for those who like spending time outdoors. In other words, the Pomeranian is a versatile dog – perfect for many types of families.

Health

Fortunately, the Pomeranian breed tends to be healthy but like most other dogs, there are a few possible health risks. With good care, a dog of this breed could easily live to be 14, 15, 16, or older. Some of the more common concerns with the Pomeranian include a Luxating Patella, dry eye, cataracts, and skin ailments.

Health risks that are not quite as common would be epilepsy, hypoglycemia, hypothyroidism, and hydrocephalus. Then on rare occasion, you might find a dog in this category dealing with Hip Dysplasia and Legg-Calve Perthes, a degenerative disease of the hip joint. Of all possible health risks associated with a Pomeranian, a collapsed trachea, or heart disease known as Patent Ductus Arteriosus are the most serious.

It is also important to keep this breed of dog well groomed. Otherwise, the undercoat can become tangled, pulling on the skin and causing blood circulation problems. Typically, brushing the coat two to three times a week is sufficient. Since this breed of dog is also prone to dental problems, most veterinarians recommend brushing, along with regularly scheduled cleaning, which would be done professionally and under anesthesia.

You feel that you have been taking good care of your Dachshund since the day he entered your door. But despite your best efforts to ensure his health, sickness will always find its way to invade your dog’s life. Some of these illnesses are common and curable. But these common and curable illnesses can be the way to serious and dangerous disease if left untreated at the right time.
A Dachshund is characterized with long spinal column and short rib cage. That is the reason why they are more prone to health problems related to spine. They are more likely to suffer intervertebral disk disease, one of the most common canine back problems affecting Dachshund dogs. Intervertebral disk disease occurs when the jelly like in the inner layer of the disk protrudes through the fibrous outer layer into the vertebral canal and presses on the spinal cord.
This intervertebral disk disease comes in three types. Type 1, usually appears in dogs three to six years of age. In this type, the rupture in the vertebral canal may increase because the disks of dogs become more like cartilage than fibrous tissue. Type 11 is just a partial protrusion and appears in dogs six to ten years of age. Type 111 is usually rare but causes damage the most. In this type, the disc herniates severally and may actually enter the spinal cord and cause severe damage. This damage may be so severe and incurable and may require euthanasia.
A dachshund suffering from this disease may feel pain in the region of the neck and weakness or paralysis in the limbs. IVDD can be treated through anti inflammatory medication and in surgery in serious cases to relieve the spinal cord. Other treatments include hydrotherapy, massage and herbal homeopathic treatments.
Diabetes is another disease that may affect your Dachshund. Diabetes is common to dogs especially to obese ones. A dachshund with diabetes may want to drink more and urinate more. Other symptoms include weight loss, increased appetite, dehydration and cataract formation. Diabetes left untreated may result to ketotic and additional symptoms such as depression, weakness, vomiting and rapid breathing may be experienced.
Canine diabetes is treated through careful diet and insulin therapy, just like in humans. Foods rich in fiber and carbohydrates are recommended to dogs with diabetes.
Some Dachshunds are found out to have urolithiasis, a disease caused by excessive amount of crystals in the urinary tract. Symptoms of this disease include frequent urination, bloody and dribbling urine, weakness, depression, loss of appetite, vomiting and pain. Contact your veterinarian for recommendations on treatment when your dog has any of these symptoms.
Selective breeding plays an important role in prevention of these diseases. Dogs with any of these diseases should not be included in breeding to prevent dogs from acquiring disease.

Most, if not all of us adore dogs and wish to have one at home. Unfortunately, not everyone is comfortable in having a hairy pet at home because of health issues. Some of these pretty pets can give us allergies especially if we are not used to having this animal as pets. It is a good thing that there are non shedding dog breeds that we could take care of if we need special living conditions because of our illness and if we have certain allergies.

There are a lot of non shedding dog breeds out there so no need to limit ourselves with a few breeds. Not only the Shih Tzus of this world have the right to be loved because even hairless terriers deserve the affection of human owners. These dogs would be even more loved because of the fact that they do not mess up the house unlike other dogs do when they shed. It is inevitable for most dogs to shed their hair as it is part of their life cycle so dogs that have very little or no hair would really benefit those with allergies.

Even if you have asthma and sneeze with just a sight of a single dog hair strand, you can still have a lovable pet. It would be better to choose a pet from non shedding dog breeds while the dog is still young as you will have a lot of time to spend with your pet and watch him grow.

This article is all about dogs.

Perhaps almost everybody believe that the Poodle – toy, miniature or standard Poodle is a beautiful dog that exudes certain kind of confidence, pride and dignity. A lot of people fell in love with this breed and have been growing Poodle family over the years. Since they love the breed dearly, they have come to know a lot about the dog – from the food and exercise they need, training, clipping and grooming and other details concerning these adorable and intelligent dogs. But for those who are still on their way in learning how to provide proper care, and for those who are contemplating to get a Poodle (especially a standard Poodle) in the near future, here are some facts about grooming…

- Poodles have hair like humans, thus it never stops growing. Clipping should be done every six to eight weeks. Clipping can be done by a professional groomer or you can learn how to groom your dog yourself at home.

- If you decided to groom your Poodle at home, find a professional who is willing to teach you on how to groom your dog. Then procure the necessary grooming supplies such as brush, comb, clippers, scissors, dog shampoo and blow dryer. Take time to introduce these items to your dog to prevent them from being frightened as well as make grooming a lot easier.

- Regular brushing is necessary to keep the coat free of tangles and mats. Standard Poodles in show clips require about ten hours of brushing per week. Take note also that the dog must be free of tangles in preparation for a haircut.

- Poodle hairstyle, aptly called clip comes in various types – Puppy clip, English Saddle, continental and Sporting Clips. However, only Continental and English Saddle clips are qualified to appear in most show rings. A puppy below one year old may be shown in the Puppy clip and a Poodle whose show career is over is clipped down whatever the owner wants. Pet clips are usually simple and put into a lower-maintenance cut but can also be elaborate.

- As much as possible, the face, feet and base of the tail should be kept short to maintain cleanliness. Feces can get matted in the fur and food can get trapped on the face when fur in these areas are left to grow long.

Try to consider these facts and you can expect a 12 to 15 happy years with your dog.