The 15 Most Dangerous Dogs

What do you think is the most dangerous dog? A pit-bull, right? Nope, wrong. Surely then it must be a Rottweiler, a German-Shepherd, or maybe even a Chow-Chow. Again, nope, no-way, and incorrect. The correct answer is... a Dachshund. Yes, you read that correctly. Dachshunds are the most dangerous type of dogs. Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania recently surveyed 6,000 dog owners and found that "one in five dachshunds have bitten or tried to bite strangers, and a similar number have attacked other dogs; one in 12 have snapped at their owners."

So, surely the number 2 dog on the list must be a pit bull, right? Wrong! It appears that Napoleon Syndrome is real because the number 2 dog is a Chihuahua. Chihuahuas have similar statistics to dachshunds when it comes to biting strangers, their owners, or other dogs. Completing the top 3 list is the Jack Russell Terrier. So, why is that we assume pit bulls, Rottweilers, and Chow Chows are the most dangerous dogs?

The answer is actually quite simple. It's because most clinical studies on this subject use medical data as the basis for their research. Since big dogs create bigger wounds they're reported more frequently and this causes the medical data to be skewed inaccurately toward big dogs. Truthfully, all breeds can be provoked to bite. Whether or not a dog actually bites is generally a result of how well it's been trained and treated. So, the question really is what dog breeds are genetically predisposed to aggressiveness? Here's a list, in no particular order, of the 15 most dangerous dogs.

1. Giant Schnauzer - Similar to German Shepherds, the Giant Schnauzer was trained in Germany to assist soldiers. This dangerous dog possesses the size of a Great Dane with the intelligence of a Schnauzer. These qualities in addition to his natural tendency to be fiercely loyal make this a dog of which to be aware. Stranger anxiety in the Giant Schnauzer is more common than other dogs.

2. Akita Inu - The Akita Inu is a heavy boned, powerful, and alert dog. He possesses a dignified and courageous persona and has a tendency to be aggressive toward other dogs.

3. Chow Chow - According the American Kennel Club, "... the Chow is reserved and discerning with strangers. Their cat-like personalities make them independent, stubborn and less eager to please than other breeds. They require early socialization and training, and some kind of exercise daily.

4. Bullmastiff - The Bullmastiff is fearless and confident. They were originally bred to guard natural game preserves from poachers as such they are natural guardians of the home, but do not bark much, as silence was a virtue when guarding the preserves. Bullmastiffs are independent thinkers and may not respond to traditional obedience training.

5. Papillion - The Papillion, is very small and very loyal to its family. It can be weary of strangers and though they are generally sweet tempered they need to be watched carefully around non-family members or other dogs visiting their home.

6. Old English Sheepdog - Old English Sheepdogs (OES) are athletic and energetic and require lots of exercise. The OES was bred to herd sheep. He has retained his natural tendency to herd whether or not there are sheep and accordingly he may try to herd people or other objects. He is generally a loving, sweet animal but may become aggressive if he feels someone or something is interfering with his herding job.

7. Dachshund - The Dachshund, meaning "badger dog" in German, was bred to dig into holes, hunt for, and fight to the death with badgers. Dachshunds tend to be territorial and in order to make the integration into family life as smooth and happy as possible he requires consistent assertion from his owners throughout his lifetime.

8. Llasa Apso - Llasos were bred for hundreds of years as indoor watchdogs. They are naturally suspicious of strangers. Additionally, the dog possesses an aloof and independent personality - it requires consistent handling throughout it's life and requires daily walks or exercise. Llaso's are best for adult only families.

9. Miniature Pinscher - Miniature Pinschers are fearless, animated, and independent creatures. They are spirited, and require consistent reminders about who the true alpha dog is in the family.

10. Jack Russell Terrier (officially known as Parson Russell Terriers) - These little dogs are bright and very energetic. They require lots of exercise and are better in families with older children as they do not tolerate rough handling from small children.

11. Pit Bull - What is commonly known as the pit bull is officially known in England as the Staffordshire Bull-Terrier and in the United States it's known as the American Staffordshire-Terrier. Whatever you call it, this dog is actually very people-oriented and is happiest when he is made part of the family and given a job to do. He is generally very friendly but is loyal to a fault to his family and will protect them from any threat.

12. Rottweiler - Rottweilers love their people and are protective of their territory. They do not welcome strangers until properly introduced. Obedience training and socialization are musts.

13. German Shepherd - The German Shepherd is a renowned guard and military dog. It is also a loving family companion. The breed is direct and fearless, with a strong, muscular body. He is a great family dog and is only on the most dangerous list because he can be trained to be aggressive (as can most dogs)

14. Dalmatian - The Dalmatian is the only horse "coaching" dog in the world and he has retained a natural affinity for horses. Dalmatians are very energetic and require daily long walks or romps in a fenced yard. Without regular exercise he can become destructive.

15. Chihuahua - Swift moving and terrier-like in behavior, Chihuahuas are highly intelligent and should not be underestimated even though small in size. They do not tolerate the rough handling that comes with young children so they are best for families with older or no kids.

Remember, all dogs can be provoked and all dogs, given the proper training, can be well mannered animals. Whatever breed you decide to add to your family it is important to socialize your pet with other animals and people as soon as possible. Also, consistent routines, affirmation, and discipline will make your new dog a happy member of the family.

Organic and Natural Pet Food - Prevention is the Best Medicine

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure - we have all heard this phrase during our lives many times. Nothing could be truer when it comes to our pets. Unfortunately, many dog owners have accepted common abnormalities as normal. By learning to care for our dogs before they become ill, using natural and holistic approaches, we can avoid the common disorders that are becoming more prevalent in dogs today. Starting your puppy with a natural and organic food diet is an excellent start for long and healthy life.

Every single part of your dog's body works together interdependently. If one part isn't working well it can affect the total body, mind and attitude of your dog. By understanding how your dog's entire body works together you can begin to understand how to help your dog's overall health. When we think of health we actually are thinking of a lack of health rather than a complete state of wellness. The following is description of the working parts of your dog and what should be considered normal.

Skin and Coat There are many types of breeds of dogs having many different coats; some breeds have short coats, long coats, coats that shed and coats that do not shed. These differences dictate the amount of grooming needed to sustain good health in your dog. Regardless of the type of coat your dog has, it should be clean, dry, glossy, soft or wiry depending on then breed's normal coat. It should be without dandruff or oiliness. Your dog should shed all year long but even more so in the summer (excessive hair loss is never normal). Also make sure your dog's coat does not emit a strong odor. Depending on your dog's breed, the skin should be pink, black or spotted. Flakiness, redness, lumps or bumps on your dog's skin is not normal and should be looked at by you veterinarian.

Teeth, Gums, and Mouth Your puppy will typically lose its baby teeth by six months of age. The normal puppy has twenty-eight teeth between the upper and lower jaws. The normal adult dog will have forty-two teeth between the upper and lower jaws. Your dog's teeth should be white and straight, and his breath should not possess an unusually bad odor. In general, your dog's tongue and gums should be light pink. There are some breeds where this is not the case such as the Chow Chow or Dalmatian but normally speaking if your dog has a discolored tongue or gums he may have a periodontal disease. Your dog's jaws should be well aligned. An excessive under-bite or over-bite can lead to eating problems which will eventually lead to many other health problems.

Ears Dog's ears come in many shapes and sizes but regardless of your dog's ear shape and size, the ear canals should be pink and clean of any discharge or odor. Dogs with floppy ears tend to get more ear infections than those with erect ears because their canals can not breathe as freely. Dogs that swim more frequently also experience more ear infections. If your dog is shaking his head frequently, scratching his ears or forehead or is rubbing his ears on furniture or other objects are signs of illness and should be checked out by your veterinarian.

Eyes Your dog should look alert and focused. He should not have excessive tear production or mucus discharge coming from his eyes. Seeing these conditions suggests your dog has some type of aliment and should not be ignored. Too many dog owners write these types of signs off as normal which is not a good practice.

Nose Your dog's nose should be moist and clean. There should be no discharge except for a clear discharge, anything else is not normal. If your dog's nose is cracked, changes color or gets erosions you should have your dog checked by your veterinarian. Sometimes a simple change in diet can correct these types of problems.

Weight Your dog is going to be healthiest and happiest when his weight is within a normal range. You should be able to feel a thin layer of fat between the rib cage and the outside of the dog's body and you should be able to feel a natural indentation just beyond the rib cage. Your dog's ribs should not be visibly noticeable nor should there be excessive fat covering the rib cage. An over-weight dog is one of the most common causes for back and hip problems. It will also contribute to other diseases as your dog ages such as diabetes. Being at a healthy weight will also contribute to a higher level of energy which will also add to the overall health and wellness of your dog.

A healthy dog is outgoing, friendly, and generally happier. Some breeds will have more distinct personalities than others but in general a healthy dog is a happy dog. Whatever the predominant personality trait is for your dog, a healthy dog will display a more positive behavior pattern for that particular trait. As a dog owner, getting in the habit of a proper diet and exercise pattern starting at the puppy stage is the best way to stay on a healthy tract. Using natural and organic pet supplies is the best choice since the proper care has been taken in producing these products and generally is accepted by most veterinarians.

In closing, the top seven reasons to use natural and organic pet supplies are:

Immunity, your dog will be less likely to get sick
Your dog will smell and look better
A healthy dog is a happy and more energetic dog
A healthy dog spends less time at the vet saving you money and time
Less yard waste, your dog's stool are smaller when using an organic diet
Your dog will be easier to train and will be friendlier
Longevity, you will be able to enjoy and love your dog longer

Runescape Summoning Pets

The long awaited 'summoning' skill has finally been released to the Runescape world. With the new skill comes alot of new familiars to summon and pets to take care of. Unlike the familiars which need to be created with pouches and ingredients at an obelisk, pets are obtained in different ways.

Some pets can be purchased directly from one of the pet shops in Runescape. There are six types of dogs available in the pet shops. You can buy a Bulldog, Dalmatian, Greyhound, Labrador, Sheepdog or a Terrier. These all require only level 1 summoning and all need you to feed them raw meat.

Other Animals can be raised from eggs. There are seven types of animals that can be raised from eggs. Eggs found in birds nests include: Raven, Guthix raptor, Saradomin owl, Zamorak hawk. You can obtain a Penguin egg from the Ardougne Zoo, Vulture eggs are found as a drop from Vultures and A dragon egg can be found as a drop from a dragon. Chameleon eggs can be found on Cairn Isle. If you have an egg then you need to have it incubated at a pet shop.

A Gecko, Squirrel, Raccoon and a monkey can all be caught by using your hunter skill. Giant crabs can be purchased from mogres.

Some information about pets:

You can put your pets in your inventory or take them out at any time.

Each pet has different needs. Care for them or they will run away.

Some pets take a long time to grow up.

You can only have one type of pet at one time.

You can only have one follower out at a time.

The Guthix raptor, Saradomin owl and Zamorak hawk all have three stages of growth: chick, bird and raptor/owl/hawk.

Grooming Your Collie Dog

Collies come in two different varieties, "smooth" and "rough." Rough collies require much more grooming, but smoothes do need to be groomed regularly to keep their coats healthy. Collies have a double coat of hair, meaning there is a thick undercoat and an outer coat of thinner and flatter hair.

A smooth collie has shorter hair like that of a Labrador or Dalmatian. The hair is short and smooth with a thick undercoat. Rough collies have a long and flowing topcoat and a dense undercoat. You can keep your collie looking good, no matter what the variety, with regular brushing.

You'll need a pin brush, a slicker brush, a comb, scissors and a spray bottle filled with a conditioner spray. You can buy a commercial conditioner spray, or make your own using 1 to 2 tablespoons of dog conditioner diluted with water. Make sure it is diluted well or the spray will make your Collie's coat greasy.

Make sure to spray your dog's hair thoroughly before you start to brush. Never brush a Collie's coat dry because it will break their hair. If you have a rough collie, part the dog's hair and brush from the roots out. The pin brush can be used if your dog is not shedding and is free of matting.

The slicker brush and comb are helpful for shedding dogs and for removing mats. If a mat cannot be brushed out of the Collie's hair, you can cut it out. Collies most often have matted hair behind their ears, underneath the front legs and on their underbelly so make sure to check those areas carefully. For a smooth collie, a slicker brush will suffice for both the undercoat and outer coat.

You should brush your collie everyday during shedding seasons, and at least once a week when they are not shedding. Regular brushing is important to remove the dead hair. If left alone, the dead hair will cause hot spots on your dog's skin.

Collies generally do not require all over trimming, but you might want to keep their feet trimmed. With a small pair of scissors, carefully trim the hair around each footpad.

This will keep your collie's feet clean. While you are working with your collie's feet, you can also trim the nails. This should be done every 1 to 2 weeks to keep the nails from getting too long.

If your collie is a puppy, you can train them to be used to a Dremel tool with a sandpaper attachment. Apply light pressure with the Dremel and grind down to just before the pink quick.

The alternative to using the Dremel is to use a standard dog nail trimmer. Before you clip the dog's nails, find the pink quick and cut just before that point. Cutting into the quick will make the dog's nail bleed. If this happens, styptic powder is helpful to have on hand to stop the bleeding.

Finally, remember to clean your Collie's ears about once a week. You can purchase a canine ear cleaner at any pet store. Squirt the ear cleaner into your dog's ear canal and then rub the base of the ear. This will help the ear cleaner coat the inside of the ear canal. You can use a cotton ball to remove the excess cleaner and then allow the ear canal to dry naturally.

Bluey - Oldest Australian Cattle Dog on Record

The oldest dog on record was an Australian Cattle Dog named Bluey.

Bluey lived to be almost 30 years old. That figure is in human years.

Dogs mature more rapidly than humans.

According to dog age experts, a one-year-old dog is really about age 15

in human equivalent years. The average life expectancy of The Australian

Cattle Dog is about 12-15 years.

Bluey was exceptional in that he outlived all the online life expectancy calculations. It may have been his diet or his genetics. The life expectancy of dogs increase dramatically because of better diets, better health care, and better living conditions.

Bluey was put to sleep on November 14, 1939 at the age of 29 years, 5 months.

The official AKC breed name for Bluey is "Australian Cattle Dog". Sometimes these

dogs are called "heelers" because they were developed in Australia for controlling

cattle. The dogs were trained to herd cattle by nipping and biting at their heels.

Ancestors:

Bluey's ancestors are Collies, Dalmatians, and the native Australian Dingo.

Bluey was heavier and more muscular than his ancestor the Border Collie.

The ACD have been working on Australian ranches since early in this century.

Bred to withstand extreme temperatures and the resourcefulness to forage to

feed itself like a wild dog made the ACD a very independent pet.

Physical Characteristics:

The coat is smooth with a double coat that it is resistant to the

elements. The breed sheds constantly and requires regular brushing.

Bluey and his breed are:

Sturdy and compact herding dogs

Well-developed muscles

Powerful, strong and agile

Size & Height:

The breed is medium in size
Weighs around 32-35 pounds

Height of 17-20 inches.

Personality:

Bluey and his breed are very good with the family children. This breed has a natural

protective instinct. They are very loyal dogs and are easy to train. These dogs need

to attend dog obedience classes. As a result of their dog obedience classes, they

will be absolutely obedient companions.

The ACD tends to show some aggressive tendencies toward noisy and strange

children that tend to tease the animal. These dogs will nip at the heels of people

and children because of their inherent "heeler" traits. They may be suspicious

of individuals as well as other dogs.

This breed needs regular exercise. A daily walk will keep the dog satisfied. This breed is

very easy to train. The dog wants to stay busy so engage the dog in stimulating

activities like "fetch" or the frisbee.

Give the Australian Cattle Dog a toy and he will play with the toy until the toy is totally destroyed. They will run and fetch sticks, balls and even cans. The breed is fun and playful and make excellent companions for children.

Physical Accommodations:


Requires a large open yard.

Barks at any change in environment

Needs attention.



When an Australian Cattle Dog is bored they tend to become destructive.

The dog will destroy any object left in his area. The ACD is a very

active dog and wants to run and jump in open areas.

Health Problems:

Genetic health problems may include the following:


Deafness

Progressive retinal atrophy (causes blindness)

Hip dysplasia,

Temperament abnormalities.

Deficit of attention disorders

Few ACD owners complain of loneliness or lack of companionship with this breed.

The ACD wants love and attention and will give these back ten fold. Bluey is no

longer with us but the ACD breed , Australian Cattle Dog is one of the most popular dogs in the United States and in the UK.

Two Hearts Rescued

Penny, Keno, Fritz, Bearlington Barron, Ashes in the Wind and last but not least, Abby, are Dalmatians that were lucky enough to have Laverne care for them. Dalmatians had been a part of Laverne's life for over 50 years. Abby passed away in February of 2006 leaving Laverne feeling sad and lonely. She really wanted to love another Dalmatian, but realized that might be a challenge with her age. Laverne was very cautious and took her time thinking everything through. With encouragement from her friends she decided to look for an older Dalmatian. Her friends stepped in with that effort and one thing lead to another to bring her in contact with Save Our Spots Dalmatian Rescue. Five year old Suzie met Laverne and wiggled her way into Laverne's heart within minutes.

Not hesitating one moment, Laverne prepared her home by placing a doggie bed in the living room, dining room and bedroom. She bought dog food and treats and set out water and kibble dishes. Dog toys were abundant for Suzie as she arrived to Laverne's home in early October. Suzie helped Laverne feel alive again.

Laverne is a perfect example of the positive effect a dog can have on your life. She is 80 years young, and a gracious, big-hearted lady who knows how good it feels to be needed and loved. As she awakes each morning, she glances at the closet mirror opposite her bed. The reflection looking back at her gives her purpose to rise for the day. That purpose, Suzie, wags her tail and smiles only as a dog can do.

Pets can provide love and many other benefits to the elderly. Studies are expanding our knowledge by leaps and bounds on this subject. The following are some of the benefits an animal can provide to a senior:

o Dogs are therapeutic and can help alleviate against everyday stress.

o Seniors that have dogs tend to go to the doctor less.

o Cholesterol levels can be lower when an animal is part of a senior's life.

o Seniors with pets have high optimism and better psychological well-being.

o Animals help to promote social interaction and decrease isolation and loneliness.

o Pets are experts at encouraging laughter, playfulness and exercise.

o The need for touch, warmth and affection is satisfied with a pet.

It really is simple. We all want to be needed and loved. These feelings are especially true for the elderly. Laverne takes great delight in caring for Suzie. She visits the local senior center often and has gotten the go-ahead to bring Suzie in for a visit. Not only is Suzie providing love for Laverne, but she will also share her love with Laverne's friend who is in the nursing home. One dog can provide so much affection and warmth. It is hard to put that feeling into words, as it can only be felt with the heart.

Visiting with Laverne and Suzie this past December is an experience that will stay with me always. The special bond between them is what being loved and needed is all about. Suzie lay at Laverne's feet as we talked, snoring to the rhythm of our conversation. As Laverne got up to show me around her home, Suzie did not miss a beat, and followed lovingly beside us. Laverne shared with me the story of how Suzie brings her shoe to her each morning and places it next to her bed. It is Suzie's way of saying it is time to get up and moving for the day. As Laverne sits on the edge of the bed, Suzie walks over to her and places her head adoringly on her knee. To witness such a sweet act is to know without a doubt that two hearts were rescued.

Dog shelter - Top 10 Reasons Pooches End Up in The Dog House

The sad facts are, each and every year people just throw their dogs away like last seasons fashions. We see hundreds of thousands of dogs arrive at animal rescue shelters, because their owners are no longer able or prepared to take the necessary steps to take care of them.

Statistics say that approximately 25 percent are unwanted presents, another 25 percent have behavioral problems and the rest are given up for domestic or other reasons.

Here's the top 10 reasons why pooches end up in the dog house.

1. The breed was that year's MUST HAVE accessory, a little bit of Paris Hilton syndrome or the 101 Dalmatians fad.

2. I just couldn't resist him in the shop window, so little, cute and fluffy - but he didn't stay that way for long.

3. Due to lack of training, the dog became aggressive, destructive and totally uncontrollable.

4. Dog was purchased on impulse. Buy first think later, usually being pressured by children then realizing the level of COMMITMENT required.

5. The dog was left alone for long periods consequently barking and upsetting the neighbors and becoming aggressive, destructive and uncontrollable.

6. Old age and no longer being able to physically cope with the demands of dog ownership.

7. Let's face it owning a dog is not cheap nowadays - feeding, veterinary treatments, worming, boarding cost when your on holidays can really stretch the purse strings.

8. Separations of couples and no one wants the dog.

9. When young families have a new arrival and the responsibility and expense become too much.

10. Owners move to a new apartment with a no pet rule.

In all fairness there are valid reasons that people have when having to part with their dogs but the trend that seems to be shining through is that people have to realize when purchasing a dog is a responsibility thats on going. Its not like buying lip gloss, if you don't like it you can change it or throw it away. Remember dogs can make great companions and life time friends and like any friend you should take good care of them.

All the best from the family at Phoopups and keep those tails wagging.

The Importance Of Dog Grooming

Owning a dog is just like having a baby since you need to take care of it, bathe it, feed it and make sure that you keep your dog clean at all times. Dog grooming is important not only because of the physical appearance of your dog but the fact that a dog's behavior is sometimes influenced by the way he feels and how we look at them. You have to bear in mind that if your dog is clean and healthy, then it would show how happy your dog would be. It is also essential not only on your pet's physical health but also his physiological and psychological well-being.

Here are some reasons why it is important that you keep your dog neat and clean at all times:

Taking care of your dog's health involves grooming it, a shower and towel dry is appropriate for many dogs, whereas a pedigree, such as a Shih-Tzu or poodle, Dalmatian, Pomeranian, Chow Chow, Chihuahua might need weekly bathing and trimming, nail clipping and their coat oiling. Make sure to get your cleaning tools from the your trusted pet store, or think about taking him to a "doggy day care" for a thorough treatment.

Your dog's coat will look healthy and gleaming if you groom it frequently and it also provides a way to show affection. Make sure to make it a habit to have your dogs groomed from an early age and he will grow to enjoy the attention given to him. This is also a good time to check his skin for any likely skin diseases, ticks, or cuts only noticed on closer examination.

If you wish to do the grooming yourself, then you would need some combs depending on the dog that you have, shampoo and other basic equipment which can be bought at your neighborhood pet shop. Most dogs will just need a flea shampoo and a comb but if you own a pedigree then perhaps you should think about taking them to the dog grooming center for a proper treatment.

Another thing that you should bear in mind is that most dogs that are not properly groomed would have ear problems and infections. To make sure that your dogs would not suffer from these infections, it is important that you take care of their hygiene at all times.

These are just a few reasons why dog grooming is important so to make sure that you have a happy and healthy dog, you need to make sure that you take care of their hygiene at all times. There are grooming centers everywhere and if you think you need help in grooming your dogs, you can always bring them to grooming centers and pick from a wide variety of services for your cuddly dogs.

Getting a New Pet - Be Mindful

BECOMING A RESPONSIBLE HUMAN TO OUR ANIMAL COMPANIONS

Adding a pet to the family is a serious, long-term commitment. It's a decision that needs input from everyone who would be involved in caring for the animal. Who will play with your new pet, feed and walk her/him daily? A pet needs attention and love EVERY DAY, not when it is convenient for you.

Too many people see celebrities carrying their Chihuahuas or other small breeds in their purse or bag. These pets are not an accessory. They are a living creature that deserves the dignity and care we'd want for any of our human loved ones. Often the latest blockbuster movie has everyone running out to purchase "that breed", but then in a short period of time, the novelty wears off and our shelters become inundated with Chihuahuas, Yellow Labs, Dalmatians, bunnies, Persian cats, potbelly pigs, etc.

There is responsibility in having an animal companion. The very first challenge is: Are you choosing the right breed for your entire family? You have to consider temperament, size, safety and general compatibility with EVERYONE in the home.

Who will bathe your pet? Who will administer the monthly flea repellant? Could someone be allergic to the pet? What is the cost of neutering and spaying? Why is this a good thing to do?

Please think about how much will it cost to feed them.

Questions like:

Where do I buy quality food to feed my pet? Do I know how to read a label on the pet food or treats to make sure they are the best for my animal's health? Do I honestly know what is in my pet's food? Premium quality food reduces your vet costs as they get fewer allergies, diseases and ailments.

How much money will it cost me annually for proper veterinary care? NOTE: Consider the age and any known condition of health at the time you have taken on care for your new pet. Older pets are often great to get, consider your emotions and how long this pet will be in your life. Do they have any physical conditions that will cost me more at the vet? Senior animals seem to not get as easily adopted...please consider it. They are already mellow and can be less effort to train. Who would look after the animal during my trips and vacations? You cannot leave most animals alone without at least partial human daily supervision.

Where to obtain your pet:

Instead of buying a puppy or kitten as a gift, consider looking into and possibly waiting to adopt a pet from a local shelter or breed- specific rescue group. You could give a loved one a "gift certificate" from a local shelter, or a stuffed animal representing a shelter pet. Shelters too often carry the brunt of too many decisions that are made unconsciously resulting in rejected animals being "returned". They are Not disposable items!

Just say "no!" to buying at the pet stores:

Many pet stores purchase their animals from "puppy mills": mass-breeding operations so bent on making a profit that they often disregard the physical, social, and emotional well-being of the animals in their facilities. Puppy mill-raised animals can suffer from neglect such as severe physical and emotional ailments, and some may even die.

NOTE: Puppy mills-The only way to put these facilities out of business is to hit them where it hurts: in the wallet. Don't purchase an animal from a pet store.

SHELTERS ARE THE WAY TO GO:

So instead of supporting the puppy mills or paying for a breeder to produce a live creature to be born 'just for you!'... head to your local animal shelter and breed-specific rescue group, which are wonderful places to find a new pet. Nationwide dogs and cats in shelters can be purebred, and there are millions of healthy mixed breed animals currently awaiting good homes. Most of these shelter animals have already been spayed or neutered, and have received all their vaccinations and up-to-date veterinary checkups.

No need to be impulsive or uninformed. This is a life; a live being you are taking on, and you want to be the best you can be for your animal companion. Ask yourself: AM I BEING A RESPONSIBLE PET PARENT?

Often, when the owner decides the pet is not that cute anymore, or too much work, or they just weren't ready for the responsibility, it is often the local shelter that takes in these animals. We need to remember that pets can't simply be returned or discarded like a broken toy.

Because so many shelters are already filled to capacity, unless other animals are adopted out to make room for the new ones, euthanasia is a possible ending to an already sad tale. It is heartbreaking and unnecessary if we humans all took responsibility in the first place.

Please think it through. Too many wonderful creatures are returned to shelters, as people just don't realize the responsibility of being a good pet owner and making a lifetime commitment. It will cost you money and time.

There will be bumps in the road like any relationship. Will you willing clean up their vomit? Clean their kitty litter daily? Clean the birdcage? Give a reptile the proper size environment? Is your child kind to small creatures? Do you have the patience to teach them how to be kind and properly care for your new pet?

You must be diligent about teaching your small child proper handling of your new animal companion.

A Personal Tail:

I once rescued a Pomeranian that was 5+ years old. She had been bred for 5 years of her life and "tossed out" after that. That is when I found her at a breed-specific rescue center. Somehow these sweet pets know they are being rescued; she was one of the most appreciative animals I ever had. Well behaved but a little skittish at the beginning. She was kept in a confined area when she was a "breeder" and it took her awhile to get used to her new home where with me she had freedom to move around physically and explore more, and the consistent love and attention was new for her. It took her almost a year to trust the situation and "relax" into her new home.

Give them time...they will figure it out. Rescues make wonderful companions!

All this for exchange of one of the best relationships you will have in your life. You will be rewarded with unconditional love like you have never known.

Be a responsible pet owner, your heart will be filled and you and your pet will be forever grateful to you!

Dogs Are Great Pets!

I don't know about you but I believe that if you wanted to look at having a pet, I suggest that you take consider having dogs as your pet. Why is that so? Is it true that dogs are men's best friend? Why would having them as pets be a good choice? Who is not suitable for ownership?

Let's look at each question now.

It is true that dogs are men's best friend. You, they are often passionate and are very loyal to their owners. You may think that this is overly dramatized in movies like 101 Dalmatians or Fluke. However, these behavior are real and only owners can tell you that this is real.

Dogs will make a good choice for most people. Most of the owners are either young couples, established families and older folks. For the young couples, some rear dogs because it's their signature of love. For the families, it's a way to give their kids an avenue to care for animals. For the older folks, it serves as a companion and even protection.

While dogs are serves as great pets, there are some downsides of dog ownership.

Be prepared for long ownership - Dogs do live a pretty long life, most of them have a lifespan of at least 10 years. If you do not have the commitment, DO NOT own dogs. Otherwise, if you are tired of the dogs and you leave them in the streets are stray dogs, you can be liable. So, think twice before you own a dog.

Dog ownership can be costly - Depending on the breed you are taking, owning a dog could mean an increase in your monthly expenditure. Expect to spend at least a couple of hundreds extra every month and that is normal expenses. Top pedigree dog owners can spend over thousands every month!

Health issues - Some people are allergic to dog's fur. And, if you have dogs with thick furs like a Collie or Golden Retriever, you must take extra care of their hairs. Otherwise, they may grow ticks and cause problems. One of the dangerous health issues is Tick Paralysis, which can cause death to dogs.

So, do you want to own a dog? If you have made careful consideration, go and own one! I'm sure that you will love your decision!

Things You Should Consider Before Adopting a Pet

You're thinking about adopting a pet and you are excited about it. You don't know many things about pets, only that they are cute and loving companions. So you go and get Flippy or Daisy and you bring them home. Then you realize that you don't know much about pets and start asking questions. Too late! Questions should be asked before bringing a pet at home. Pet ownership is for a lifetime!

Many people don't have a clue about the responsibilities related with pet ownership. They may have good intentions but they soon realize that having a pet at home is not as easy as they thought it would be and this revelation can often lead to tragedy.

Most people, either children or adults want a pet because they find it "cute" They watch movies, TV shows with adorable baby animals, which by the way are already trained and their desire for a pet is getting bigger. Usually their desire is directed to a puppy or a kitten, (often a specific breed) and finally they bring it at home. Everyone is happy and wants to take the furry little thing in their lap, cuddle it and play with it.

When the issue comes to who's going to take care of it, then the excitement wears off since nobody wants to do it.

People who never had a pet don't have the slightest idea of how it is to take care of one. They think it's easy, put some food and water in their bowls twice a day and that's it. Their new furry friend will be playful and happy whenever they want. After all, how much trouble can a loving little thing cause?

Surprise, surprise!

A pet in your house is like a child in your house. In fact at some point your child grows up and doesn't need your care any more, they become independent and leave your house to live on their own. The same thing won't happen with your pet. Your pet will always be a child that will require your attention and care as long as it is with you. So, there are a lot of things to consider before taking the serious decision of adopting a pet.

Getting a pet is not like buying a car. It's a living creature so if you don't get along it is not easy to get rid of it of change it for something else. When you adopt a pet you become the animal's "parent" as long as it lives. You must keep in mind that, a dog for example has an average life expectancy of 14-15 years. So, for the next 14-15 years or so, it will be your responsibility!

It's like having a baby at home. You can't send it back because it doesn't meet your expectations or because it's different than what you thought it would be. Or can you? I hope not. The same kind of responsibility must be in your minds when you are thinking of getting a pet.

A pet is not a video game. You don't just shut it down when you're finished playing with it and expect it to just sit waiting for you until you decide to come back. Puppies are like young children. They need a lot of sleep but when they are not asleep they are wondering around the house looking for fun! A puppy who's just started growing teeth will find a lot of fun and pleasure in chewing your favourite shoes or slippers. At this point many people start losing their patience and instead of finding a way to divert the puppy's attention to something else, they get rid of it in an animal shelter, or worse they abandon it in the streets. The only crime of the puppy was in fact that it was a puppy! Puppies are not destructive and naughty just because they want to make you furious. It's just what they do. If you are considering of getting one you must rearrange your home first, so the puppy will not have access to things you don't want to be destroyed. Another good idea is buying a lot of chew toys. You can be sure that the puppy will choose them instead of your shoes.

Another important issue to consider is which breed you are fond of and would like to obtain. Every breed has special characteristics and even though you'd love to get a puppy of a certain breed, this may not be the right one for you. There are certain things to consider, for instance will it be easy to train, will it be a shy dog or a hyperactive that will require many walks during the day, will there be any health problems with the breed you chose, etc. You may adore a Labrador or a German Shepherd but if you live in a small apartment, maybe you should reconsider. Large dogs require space to run and play and they'll feel depressed in a confined space. Also some large breeds develop back or hip problems that will require extra health care especially when they are getting older.

Pets also cost money to raise and maintain, just like children do. You must buy pet food, pay several bills to the vet when your beloved friend needs vaccines or medical care, monthly expenses such as heartworm and flea control and maybe grooming bills. You must also remember that you'll have extra costs when you leave for vacation and leave the animal in a pet hotel. My point is, if you're not fully aware of the cost of having an animal, maybe you should reconsider. Of course they worth every penny you'll spend for them and they'll pay you back with their unconditioned love, but still you should know all about it.

Another thing you must consider is neutering-spaying your pet. If you don't plan on breeding it, you must go to a vet and have it neutered-spayed. There are a lot of people who don't like depriving sex from their pet. Don't think like them! It is a fact that if you don't get your pet neutered while being young there will be many problems in the future and most important, health problems. If you don't spay your female dog, it's quite possible to develop cancer in its uterus in later life.

Many male or female dogs become short-tempered and anxious because they are not allowed to mate and this is against their nature.

Some people think that they can solve this problem if they allow their dog to mate at least once. Some others like the idea of having a puppy of their dog before being spayed. I strongly disagree with these tactics. First it is very irresponsible to allow pets to reproduce without control. Overpopulation in pets is a very serious problem. Every year 10-12 million pets are euthanized by shelters because they can't find homes for them. Why would anyone of you want to add to this number? Second, dogs should be neutered-spayed before they sexually mature in order to avoid health problems in the future. If you think I'm lying, just ask a vet..

To make a long story short, if you plan to obtain a pet, be responsible and have it neutered-spayed. You may think that you'll earn money by selling the puppies, if you have a purebred. You must know though that there are no guarantees that you'll sell all the puppies and even if you do, you must consider that, for every puppy you sell, there's one waiting in a shelter somewhere and may die without being adopted.

The dog breeding business, has its responsible professionals but also its lousy ones. There are several puppy mills where the poor animals live in awful, unsanitary and crowded conditions. Many breeders just don't care even a little bit about their health. These breeders mate males and females from the same litter and this can cause several health problems later in the life of the dog. For example many Dalmatians suffer from deafness due to inbreeding.

So, why are you looking so badly for a purebred and you doing not consider getting a mixed breed? They are also very cute and much healthier but still, they are not people's first choice.

Why not adopt a pet from the Humane Society or your local SPCA? At least you can give them a chance even if what you really want is a specific breed. There are several advantages if you adopt an adult dog from a shelter or from one of the many breed-specific rescue operations. You can be sure that you've done a good deed by adopting a pet this way and you've saved it from being euthanized.

Some more useful thoughts...

-Don't ever consider giving a pet as a gift to someone, especially not a child. (Unless the child is yours and you clearly know that you'll be the pet's caregiver) Whoever is going to obtain a pet must do it on his own will and he must have considered everything about raising it.

-Don't bring live chicks or bunnies to your children as Easter gifts. It's cruel, they are small breathing creatures. Chicks grow into chicken, so unless you have a farm you shouldn't even think about buying one.

-Do learn what pet ownership is all about. You must have an idea about the cost, in terms of time and money. Also, a good thing to know is how getting a pet is going to change your style of life.

With all that I've mentioned above you must think that I'm not encouraging pet ownership. On the contrary, I LOVE animals, I have six dogs and two cats and I'm in a position to know what is this all about and speak about the responsibilities that pet owners should face. After all, I'm a pet owner myself. Having a pet is happiness but also means a lot of responsibilities and compromises in your private life. All I'm saying is that you should know all about it before making your decision. Pets may be very cute and sweet but trust me, they hide a lot of surprises, surprises you must be ready to deal with!

How To Choose Your Dog

So you've decided to grow your family. Chance meetings with dogs are on the increase. At the magazine stand a friendly pooch stares out of the pages at you. Late night reruns are suddenly awash with dogs - from Turner and Hooch to 101 Dalmatians! Even your friends are gushing about their new furred family addition! Your heart has been played and a dog it is. Now what? Where do you go to get a dog and how do you select one?

Your options are many and may be as simple as accepting a puppy as a gift from a friend who's just been blessed with a new litter. Chances are this is not going to be the case. Your choice should be governed by several considerations. Lets go over some of the logistics:

1. Have dogs always been part of your life? If so you can proceed with a slightly higher degree of certainty and comfort as to what you are looking for. More than likely you will want a dog of similar size, breed and temperament as the one you grew up with. If you've never owned a dog before, you may want to do some homework first.

2. Do you live in a house with a yard, a townhouse or a condominium? Although I have seen big dogs on city streets it is my opinion that they are best suited for a house with a yard. All dogs like to be played with but a big dog is best played with out in the yard where there is more room for him to romp around and run without having to be careful about furniture and furnishings. Small dogs on the other hand can play tug of war and other games in the house without disrupting your décor.

3. If the dog will be joining a family with young children you need to consider its temperament. It is no wonder that the Labrador and the Golden Retriever are a favored breed with families - they are at once protective, gentle and indulgent of small humans and incredibly forgiving of the prying and prodding of their tiny hands!

If on the other hand you and dog will form a family of two, you can opt for all kinds of other considerations. You probably have a breed in mind. If you want a purebred, go to a dog show or twol. Not only will you see some fine dogs of your preferred breed, but you can also compare them to other breeds of similar size. I remember when we were looking for a dog but were not sure whether we wanted a Rotweiler or a Weimeraner, we attended such a show and absolutely fell in love with an English Mastiff! I would never trade him! Ok. Big difference in size but it's a breed we would not have even thought of had we not seen one at a dog show.

4. Purebred or mutt? The advantage of a purebred is that you know what the puppy will grow up to look like and you know what its main characteristics are. A sheltie is a herding dog and very protective. A Shepherd or a Doberman make for good guard dogs. A mutt on the other hand, unless already grown, is more of a mystery. Of indeterminate breed(s), that cute little ball of fur may end up growing into quite a large dog with who knows what characteristics. A mutt, I have heard it said, is the true original dog - it is one of a kind, a true designer dog! A truly rare pedigree!

5. Breeder or the animal shelter? Definitely, if you have settled on a purebred, you want to get your puppy from a reputable breeder. There is probably a local breeder that you can visit. Your visit will tell you a lot about both the breeder and the dog you will bring home. Make sure the facilities are clean, the dogs well cared for and it would be good if you could have a reference or two.

Our animal shelters are overcrowded. Mostly mistakes, sometimes abandoned or just given up, these dogs make for excellent companions. Once again, if this dog is coming home to a family with young children, a puppy would probably be a better choice. If on the other hand, the children are older or its just you, an adult dog will give you just as much pleasure and joy. The advantage here is that it is probably already house trained and there are no surprises as to what it will look like when it is grown! Pound mutts come with a pedigree all their own and are much lighter on the wallet too!

Whatever your choice remember that this is a lifetime commitment. Bringing a dog into your life is not a spur of the moment decision. A dog is a life, it needs nurturing and loving, caring and giving. You'll be rewarded with sloppy kisses, adoration and unconditional love. Happiness is a two way street.

Dogs That Are Good With Children

Its true, dogs do play pivotal role in child development. Health care specialists have noticed after a nurse, Elaine Smith, introduced dog therapy as an alternative therapeutic treatment how dogs can play a major role not only in therapeutic treatment but also in child development.

Companionship can be critical to children and it was found out that dogs can readily and efficiently fill that spot. That's why it is often recommended that smaller growing children should have a pet of their own, if only to break barriers that inhibit growth like speech impediment. Or just instilling a sense of responsibility at an early age. And naturally, dogs that are good with children are best candidates for this purpose.

Being sought more as family pet, selective breeding practices over the years were aimed to iron out aggressive traits of some breeds of dogs. Now there are those breed of dogs are highly tolerant; they tolerate well the clumsy handling of older individuals and the rough handling and playing of small children. Those that have undergone training are able to resist any instinctive retaliation when pranks are played upon them - typical to small children at play. One example of a highly tolerant breed is mastiffs. A trained English mastiff can be very tolerant and gentle that it can suffer most rough playing before showing signs of aggression, and won't bite even then. Pointers are also famed for their low aggression level, though their playful nature can be harmful for very young toddlers. Another trite example is the St. Bernard.

Depending on the level of play of youngsters, there are suitable dogs and there that isn't. For growing children that loves playing outdoors, dogs that are good with children should be also adaptable for such activity. That's why Labradors, retrievers, Dalmatians and American Eskimos are better dogs. But for those especially young children, who are more cooped up indoors, a St. Bernard or a mastiff would do nicely.

In a nutshell, there are dozens of breed of dogs that are good with children. Examples include but not limited to mastiffs, pointers, and some mossolers like the St. Bernard, and conventional toy dogs like poodles. However, breed is not a de facto standard for naming dogs that are good with children, as training is highly essential for dogs of this purpose.

If you are considering dogs that are good with children, you should choose a breed that's normally with gentle temperament like those mentioned above. And they should have the right training.

Your Attitude, Is Your Dog a Match?

Each dog breed is known for certain basic characteristics - including temperament. As a result, you can rely on this information to help you choose a dog whose attitude and disposition match your own.

Some smaller dogs are known to be feisty and noisy, while some larger dogs are quiet and tranquil. One thing you need to know up front is that you're not going to get a dog to go contrary to his inherent instincts. So if you like the look of a certain breed, be prepared to live with the temperament of that breed once you take it home.

What kind of dog has an awful disposition? Answer? None if you're well matched to the dog. Behaviors that are irritating to one dog owner are no big deal to another. A person who's hyperactive won't mind a nippy miniature Poodle or Chihuahua that's just as hyperactive as they are. A quiet, studious person needs to have a calm, patient dog like the good natured, faithful Basset Hound.

Some dogs are considered by breeders to be difficult to train - such as the Lhasa Apso, Pekingese, Dalmatian, Irish Setter and Bull Terrier. Not all dogs are man's best friends. Some are fiercely independent and care little about their owners.

These unsociable dog breeds can include Bull Terrier, Bull Mastiff, Doberman, Irish Terrier, Wire Haired Fox Terrier and Rottweiler. The unsociable dogs can be alert, independent, aggressive and good as watchdogs, but they're sometimes not optimal for training.

In other cases, the dog breed may have potential for training but the personality of the individual dog is more reluctant. Or that dog may have had a bad experience at the pet store from unkind or unskilled caregivers.

The dog is reacting tough to mask his fear of being harmed or neglected based on old memories. If that's your dog's experience, then you have to take more time to reassure him that you're trustworthy and will never harm him as a means of punishment during training.

Withholding a dog treat when the dog walks poorly on a leash is reasonable. Taking away his dinner is cruel and only teaches the dog to resent you and defy you as the only means of expression he has toward maltreatment.

Other times, there's no apparent reason for the dog's odd behavior. Becoming a dog owner doesn't come with guarantees. Sometimes you have a dog that is difficult to engage and you must either care for that dog or see that he has a proper home

Dogs Are Entertainment, Protection and Love

Dogs are a big part of my life. They keep me company while everyone is gone for the day. Our first dog and all of our dogs are Dalmatians; Blaze, Pepper, Sparkle and Grace. Blazed blessed us until she was sixteen. She thought she was the queen, she was four years old when we brought home our second her name was Pepper. Unfortunately Pepper died from epilepsy when she was four. She sang to us every day she was a great joy. We Miss them both. That brings us to Sparkle, my umbilical cord, she follows me twenty-four seven and when I leave she is waiting for me at the door when I get back. She's my girl I love her.

Blaze died and we searched and found a beautiful Dalmatian puppy. Her hearing test showed she was deaf. The owners were unable to sell any dog with a hearing problem. Puppies with defects have no value and are put down. This is a way to keep the gene from being passed down to the pups. This was heart breaking for us that this puppy, our puppy would be put down just because she is deaf. Sparkle who is great and also deaf and we trained with hand signals. We still wanted this puppy. How we are able to train and cared for our dogs was enough to convince them to let us have her. We sent them the documentation that she was spayed and that is the guaranty that she will never pass on the gene that causes deafness in some Dalmatians.

We brought home Sparkle home when Blaze was eight. Blaze was the queen and just ignored Sparkle most of the time. The boys love when we bring home a new puppy and with Blaze gone and Sparkle eight years old it was a good time to welcome a new puppy with open arms. This blue-eyed beauty went almost a whole day before we came up with a name for her. Nothing really seemed to fit her personality until she went to turn while she was running and when she started to turn she wiped out falling all over herself. I laugh so hard and said that was not graceful. That is how her name became Grace, because graceful she is not. Her nick name is Velcro dog she sticks to me like Velcro she follows and sits next to me every day. Grace is just what we needed to bring more fun and love into our lives. Grace lives up to her names in some way every day she is such a clown and what a joy.

Sparkle and Grace get me up and out the door to walk with them every day. They keep me in the present not asking for very much, always looking for some love, a pet or a scratch and ready to snuggle with you at any time. My dogs are the entertainment, protection, and company we enjoy every day. I love my dogs they only act up if they feel you might be a threat to me or my family. I would love to take all the credit for the behavior of my dogs and I think my training falls short of the connection they have with each other. Grace pays close attention to Sparkle and I think that she was trained fast because she always follows Sparkles lead.

My dogs are not disable they are deaf. They use other senses to make their way in this world. Most people would not know that if I didn't tell them. I watch over them, love them and they watch over me. Everyone thinks that they're dogs are the best and I am no different. Owning four Dalmatians I can say this is my favorite breed. Soft as velvet, black spot on white, black lined eyes, black lips and a black nose. Their eyes are golden brown, chestnut or blue. They love to walk to the park and run every day. These dogs motivate me to walk they calm me when I am upset, they warn me when I am getting a migraine and in some way they make me laugh every day. I love this breed and all my girls past and present. Sparkle and Grace are great dogs and even if they can't hear we love them and they love us. Our dogs light up when we enter the room, they wag their tales and show us how grateful they are that we chose them. They all have their own personalities and become a part of the family.

It is by free grace that I am saved through faith, and this is not of myself, but it is the gift of God.

EPHESIAN 2:8