Crate Training Tips For Dogs

 Changing a dog's impression of his crate serves as one of the main goals of dog kennel training. Canines have a huge desire to nest, and with proper cage exercise, they'll quickly come to associate their cage with being a protected, cozy, and safe area. They might go there if they get stressed by the activities taking place at home. Additionally, knowing that your dog is secure in his cage can provide you with comfort if you're occupied.

There are different types and colors of crates. When choosing a kennel, it's necessary to take your canine's size into consideration. Your dog must have easy access to a proper room to stand, lie down and walk around. However, in terms of crate sizes, wider isn't necessarily better. There shouldn't be any spot that a dog can use to pee or poo. Keeping this in mind is necessary during obedience training. The container serves as an area to unwind and refuel.

Additionally, a cage will be beneficial if you need to take your pet to a veterinary hospital New Orleans, LA for routine checkups.

Some Interesting Facts About Italian Greyhounds

Art lovers are probably familiar with Italian Greyhounds— the dogs that are often depicted in centuries-old portraits of noble people painted by popular artists. Italian Wolfhounds are elegant, slender, and the smallest sighthound. They resemble their cousin Greyhounds.

Italian Greyhounds are athletic and agile, having small, muscular bodies and high-stepping gait. Also called the IG, these dogs have an instinct to hunt small animals, and they'll chase any moving objects. They can run 25 miles/hour, so they may be difficult to catch once lost. Although small, Italian Greyhounds are energetic and exercise a lot— making them excellent jogging mates.

They are affectionate and gentle with their families but can be shy/reserved with strangers. Despite their mildness, Italian Greyhounds have deep and big-dog barks. They make excellent watchdogs but are certainly unable to provide actual protection due to their small size.

Take a proactive approach to your pet’s health with regular health and wellness checks at your veterinary hospital Metairie, LA. 

Intelligent German Pinschers

German Pinschers are intelligent and fast learners, thriving in any training level and competition. These dogs like to challenge themselves and their owners, and even though they can do well in apartments, this isn't the best place for them. Ideally, these dogs should be able to exercise in a well-fenced yard— without disregard, of course, for the possibility that they'll escape. Their strong instinct to chase animals, especially those they find interesting.

With that, training is a must and should start while they're still young. Fortunately, their intelligence makes the job easy. However, these dogs aren't the type to please you, so consistency and firmness are the keys to successful training sessions. Consistent rules and positive reinforcement is essential to enable you to handle these dogs strong temperaments. Make sure they understand that you're in charge; otherwise, they'll be the ones to take over.

If you have concerns about your pet's health and/or behavior, make an appointment with your animal hospital Chesapeake, VA.

Grooming Cats With Little Or No Hair

One basic indicator of your cat’s health is the condition of her skin and coat. However, maintaining an excellent skin and coat for cats with little to no coat can be challenging. These breeds tend to be more susceptible to skin problems and infections. Because of this, you must be extra careful and more eager to groom your pet regularly.

Hairless cats groom themselves as often as regular cats. These breeds have developed an effective way of grooming their skin by using their tongue which serves as a comb due to its rough surface.

Since they are more prone to skin infections, you can make bathing an important part of their grooming routine. You can also seek advice from the vet as to which cat shampoo is best for your pet. Regardless of the type of hair coat, you should inspect your cat's coat every day to ensure smooth, rash-free, and healthy skin and coat.

Any problem affecting your pet's skin and hair coat should require a visit to your pet hospital Virginia Beach,VA.

Mental And Physical Stimulation For Kittens

Understand that cats are species born to live in the wild since they are accustomed to this lifestyle. The traits, characteristics, and features of these animals are also included in this type of living. What does this imply? It means that when adopting a kitten, you must consider her behaviors, background, and needs to thrive.

Thus, remember kittens need several activities, so they can address their needs to express their curiosity and energy. If you cannot always play with your kitten, you can give her toys that can serve as an outlet, can entertain her, and can develop her skills.

Experts recommend the following cat toys, furniture, or accessories:

• Cat-friendly toys that resemble prey animals like mice or birds

• Toys with catnip

• Cardboard boxes

• Crumpled paper

• Food puzzles

• Foraging games

• Laser points

• Scratching posts or cardboards

Meanwhile, do not give your kitten the following:

• String toys like ribbons or yarns

• Toys with small detachable parts that may cause intestinal obstruction or swallowing

A sudden change in your pet’s behavior should warrant a call to your animal care Carmel Valley. 

Hairballs In Cats Can Be Serious

Taking care of a cat is definitely not a walk in the park. There are some issues that you may encounter as a pet owner, especially those that concern your cat's health in general. One example of this is hairball problems.

Hairballs are a common issue that cat owners face and this could lead to a more complicated condition. Hairballs are loose hair strands that block a cat's digestive tract. This happens since cats are fond of licking themselves, and some strands of hair get attached to their tongue. Cats can usually get rid of these hair strands through spitting or vomiting, but there are times when the hair gets stuck in the stomach.

Here are some signs that your cat may be experiencing serious hairball issues:

●Listlessness and lethargy

●Loss of appetite

●Frequent vomiting

●Irregular bowel movement

●Sensitive and swollen stomach

●Too much nibbling

Frequent hairball episodes should require a visit to your animal hospital San Diego, CA so your cat can be examined. 

Why You Must Consider The Type Of Home You Live In Before Adopting A Cat

Do you reside in a big house or a studio flat? Do you share a residence? Each of these aspects can influence the breed of cat you should adopt. A senior or adult cat might be ideal if you have a small home. Mature cats often seem less energetic than younger kittens, even though they still enjoy playing.

Think about the areas in your home where you can let your cat roam around freely. Although many cats enjoy hiding, you do not wish them to engage in it constantly. Close the doors to the rooms and provide seating items like beds, pillows, beds or cat trees.

Keep in mind your grooming obligations.

Being a reliable pet owner means brushing your feline friend twice weekly. To prevent knots, long-haired cats require extra care and grooming. Consider the price of neighborhood pet groomers you can call to assist with nail trimmings, haircuts, and baths.

Take a proactive approach to your pet’s health with regular health and wellness checks at your pet clinic Burlington, ON. 

Interesting Facts About Bearded Collies

Bearded Collies are known to be enthusiastic dogs. They're also energetic, exuberant, active, reliable, and smart. Also known as Beardies, they are the perfect embodiment of a shaggy dog. The name of this breed came from the bread-like hair hanging down their chin.

However, Bearded Collies may not be for everyone. They are super smart, resourceful, trustworthy, and highly energetic, so they need an equally energetic and smart person to handle them. If you want to have a Beardie, you should be willing to brush their long hair and deal with water that drips along through their beard when they drink. Their hairy feet also tend to get muddy and dirty during outdoor times.

Aside from that, these sociable dogs must be included in your outdoor and indoor activities. When bored, these smart canines will spend their energy doing mischievous acts.

Make an appointment at your veterinary hospital Bellevue, WA for your pet’s health and dental checks.

Hand-Rearing Kittens

Abnormalities in kittens may arise. Some of these irregularities are obvious because they are evident at birth, but some are not and they only eventually show up. The inability to see and hear is inherited at birth. But having shortened or atypical limbs and joints can only be confirmed when the kittens are already mobile and can move by themselves.

You must know that not all mother cats can live up to their responsibilities of taking care of their kittens. Some cats reject their kittens due to these abnormalities. The task of caring for the newborn kittens now falls in your hands. You can decide between fostering, hand-rearing, or euthanasia depending on the case of the kittens. Experts say that rejected kittens may grow into defective ones and so hand-rearing will not work.

Looking for surrogate mother cats is an ideal choice.

Your veterinarian Roanoke, VA can enlighten you about important health issues that can affect your pet.

Handling Pet Lizards

Lizards are creatures that do not enjoy being handled. Yes, you have read that right. Lizards are afraid of being handled or even picked up because they think that they are about to die or may get hurt.

Some lizards can get used to being handled, including the bearded dragons and savannah monitors. These lizards are out in the market, affordable, and widely domesticated.

Some lizards, however, will not enjoy being handled no matter how hard you try or how often you do. But when you try, here is one rule of thumb you must keep in mind:

 ● Thoroughly wash your hands after holding your lizards or cleaning their enclosure. Doing so will ensure that you are safe from Salmonella infection. Salmonella is a bacteria transmitted by amphibians and reptiles and causes illness in humans.

In addition, lizards bite. So, be careful when you hold your pets so they will not get spooked. Because when they get spooked or scared, lizards can become aggressive.

Any sign of illness exhibited by your pet should require a visit to your veterinary hospital Pasadena, MD for proper medical attention.

Why Do We Need To Blink?

 Be informed that your eyes are innately powerful since they have their defense mechanism to sustain good health. This system includes eyelashes, a tear film, and blinking. Wait, what? Blinking? How does this process help protect your eyes? 

Understand that blinking presents several advantages for your eye function and health. On average, an adult person blinks about ten to twenty times in a minute. For how long does a blink last? A blink can go for about a tenth of a second.

The magic of a blink happens when your eyelids scatter fresh layers of eye water or tears throughout the surface of your eyes. Such a blink keeps your eyes hydrated and clears away micro-irritants such as dirt and dust. When you develop excess tears, they pass through your tear ducts to be drained out into your nasal passages. This case is the reason why your nose runs when you cry buckets. 

Do you also observe that when you focus on something visually, you blink less? Yes, that is right – and it happens to all people. Do not worry because this is not an entirely bad thing. Avoid going on a day without blinking at the normal rate to prevent eye strain and dry eyes.

A regular eye examination at an optical center Broomfield, CO is a proactive way of taking care of your sense of sight.

How To Care For Your Lenses

 People with impaired vision always dreamed of having a clear sense of sight. Yes. The easiest and most accessible way to achieve it is through purchasing eyeglasses prescribed by their eye doctors. 

However, there are disadvantages to having to wear one. 

First, when wearing it regularly, specks of dust are most likely being caught.

Second, regular usage of glasses gathers oils from faces. Lastly, if glasses are on inside a cool area and eventually the person walks outside, cloudy vision happens to the lenses. 

That is why you must always bring your case and microfiber cloth to clean your eyeglasses. You must understand that the mentioned things are essential to you. Buy an accurate glass cleaner too. When you use a different kind of cloth and chemical-infused cleaners, expect damage to the lenses. If you practice this way to clean your lenses, say goodbye to the protective coatings.  Napkins are not the best substitute for wiping, because these might cause scratches. Store your glasses in the case if not used.

You will benefit from regular eye checks at an eye care center Arvada, CO.

German Pinschers Are Excellent Hunters

 

Initially, German Pinschers were bred to become working dogs, hunting and killing vermin. And until today, these dogs will still hunt down these animals, making them unfit for pet rodent owners. On the good side, the German Pinscher maintained their "working dog" energy. They do well in a lot of careers and dog sports. While many German Pinschers excel in conformation sports, obedience, tracking, and agility trials, others can be seen as therapy dogs, service dogs, and family companions.

Take note, though, that they may be overbearing and assertive at times, taking over not only your heart but also the house. Needless to say, they are not recommended to inexperienced owners. They need firm, consistent owners who can establish rules and keep up with their training needs. So if you prefer placid dogs, it will be best if you find another breed.

Your vet Roanoke, VA is a valuable resource when it comes to issues that affect your pet’s health and behavior.

Fruits And Vegetables That Are Great For Cats

If you have always been a cat lover and a fur parent for a few years now, you already know that these animals are obligate carnivores. This condition implies that cats need meat in their daily meal so they can thrive and survive the day’s challenges. 

But being obligate carnivores does not mean that felines cannot eat other healthy food items like vegetables and fruits. There are veggies and fruits rich in fiber that support gut health. Experts say that these items are much better than store-bought snacks or treats for your feline. Just be reminded not to add any seasonings to the veggies and fruits like sugar, oil, or salt to prevent intoxicating your cat. 

Which veggies and fruits can you give your cat? Here are some:

●      Bananas. This fruit contains vitamins B6 and C, magnesium, and potassium.

●      Zucchini. This can be served cooked or raw. Just remember not to add any seasoning.

●      Apples. Your cat will love this yummy treat. Just remember to remove the seeds.

●      Sweet potato. This item contains good amounts of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, calcium, and iron. It can be served boiled, steamed, or baked.

●      Beans. This treat is rich in fiber and protein. Cooked beans are good for cats. 

Know more about your pet’s nutritional needs during your pet’s health and wellness visits to your veterinary clinic San Antonio, TX.

Scratching Behavior In Cats

You have probably wondered why your pet cat often scratches, and as a pet owner, it’s good to understand exactly why your cat might be scratching. In most cases, cats scratch as a form of playing activities or to keep themselves entertained. Sometimes it is also a way for them to communicate.

Scratching serves many purposes and it is an innate behavior for cats. Here are some reasons why they often do so:

●Cats tend to scratch to clean their claws and remove dead layers of their nails. 

●Cats scratch to stretch, work off energy or fight boredom. 

●Scratching deposits a cat's scent and marks her territory. 

●Cats scratch to express themselves.

If you have noticed that your cat scratches often and has changed her behavior, it is best to bring her to an animal hospital Roanoke, VA to check if she is ill or has some health problems.

What do cats' whiskers do?

The stiff hair you see near a cat's jaw has numerous purposes. Whiskers may look like normal hair, but they're not. Cats use it to decide and assess a situation. They also use it to safely land whenever they jump from a high place. It is also an alternative to eyeglasses for cats because whiskers allow cats to see things that are near. Cats have a hard time seeing near objects. 

Whiskers are also mood indicators. Observing your cat's whiskers makes reading a cat's emotions easier. The position and form of the whiskers mean something. When it is in a relaxed position, it means that your cat is calm. When the whiskers are pointed into something, the cat feels threatened by the thing it tells. When the whiskers are tucked in your cat's face, it shows that your cat feels frightened.

If your pet is showing any signs of illness, make an appointment with your veterinary clinic San Antonio, TX. 

Pets And Anesthesia

Sometimes, pets acquire or develop illnesses no matter how protective you are as a pet parent. There are specific situations when your pet cannot be exempted from medical problems due to several risk factors. Some health problems must be resolved via a surgical procedure. 

Understand that during these processes, animals must be under the influence of general anesthesia for them not to feel any pain or discomfort. Is anesthesia safe for your pet? Does it have side effects? Technically, this medicinal drug presents a few impacts, such as heart arrhythmias, low blood pressure, hypothermia, drug reactions, and respiratory depression.

Under which circumstances do your pet need to be under general anesthesia? Here are some of these occasions: 

●      When the pet must undergo a procedure that may incur pain

●      When the pet needs to be still during a procedure

●      When the pet’s airway must be protected

●      When the pet’s procedure will take a long period and when there is a high chance of complications

●      When other forms of anesthesia are inappropriate

●      When the pet’s having chronic seizures 

Your veterinary clinic San Antonio, TX is a valuable resource when it comes to issues that affect your pet’s health and well-being.

Grooming Needs Of Single-Layer, Minimally Shedding Dog Breeds

For most dogs, shedding is an essential part of their skin and fur health. In most cases, dogs rid themselves of old or damaged hair by shedding it. However, some dogs do not shed that much and can be maintained easily. 

Bichon Frise, Poodle, Malteses, Schnauzer, Yorkshire Terriers, and Shih Tzus are some of the breeds that do not shed as much as other dogs. Though you cannot stop them from shedding some fur, you can help reduce it by frequent brushing, or by using a shedding tool and giving them a healthy diet. 

Taking the time to brush and bathe your pup can be fun and ensures that your dog’s fur and coat are in excellent condition. Thus, grooming can make your pup happy and healthy and can help you bond together. You can also send them to grooming salons at least once a month for overall pampering. 

Excessive hair loss or other skin and hair coat issues should be brought to the attention of your veterinarians Cypress, TX.

Why Do Cats Lick?

Cats are big fans of grooming, and you may have observed that they like to lick almost everything. Licking is a cat's way to clean itself or anything that surrounds them. They lick on surfaces and almost anything that is near them. You may have also noticed that they do not just lick objects, they may give you a sweet lick too!

Aside from grooming purposes, cats lick to communicate. If they lick you, then it is a way for them to show their love and care for you. They are affectionate, sweet, and sociable animals, and licking is their natural way to convey to you that they adore you.

This behavior is innate in cats probably because from the time that they were born, their mother would also lick them. They carry this behavior until they grow as adult cats as this is what they grew up with.

Your vet Cypress, TX can enlighten you about important health issues that can affect your pet.

Lionhead Rabbits

The lionhead rabbit is a petite breed with distinctive, fluffy wool that is similar to a male lion. They require daily interaction and a moderate amount of maintenance. Even though they don't need regular grooming since rabbits groom themselves, it is best to help them by brushing their loose fur. 

Before bringing them home, you must study and do proper research on how to take care of them. Normal lion-head rabbits can typically live up to 10 years so you have to take note that having them as pets is a long-term commitment. 

Lionheads require more grooming than a typical rabbit since they have mane-like fur, you have to make sure that your pet has daily brushing to keep their fur from being matted. When it comes to their diet, you can try and give them a balanced amount of greens, fruits, and pet pellet. 

Your vet Cypress, TX is a valuable resource regarding your pet’s health and needs.

Meeting The Nutritional Needs Of Your Yorkshire Terrier

 As a pet owner, you must know that each pet has different nutritional needs. In short, there is no one size fits all feeding technique that can be used for each pet.

For example, if you own a Yorkie, it is a must that you feed him only with premium, superb quality food. You must also consider his age and size when choosing the correct food for him, as a Yorkie's nutritional needs vary depending on their age and built.

One of the most prevalent health issues that happen in Yorkies is obesity. Most pet owners tend to overfeed their dogs which later results in the dog becoming overweight. Make sure to follow a strict feeding schedule when it comes to your pet's meal time. Ideally, a Yorkie must be allowed to eat for at least 15 minutes per meal. Allowing them to eat beyond this timeframe may cause them to eat more than what is expected.

Do consult your veterinarian Lakewood Ranch, FL before making any changes to your pet's diet. 

Don'ts For Dog Chewing Prevention

 

Puppies who gnaw anything can change their behavior so they don't carry it into adulthood given time, tolerance, and the right training. Older dogs who gnaw could require more care, consideration, and encouragement that is laser-focused so she learns which one to gnaw and what she should ignore.

To stop chewing in pups and older dogs, follow these DONTs:

Leave your puppy alone for a while. Never leave your dog or puppy alone for a long time without taking them outside for toilet breaks or playing with them. This treats the animal cruelly and unfairly.

Use a cage as a form of punishment. If you notice something your dog chewed on, don't punish them by putting them in a cage or kennel. Consequently, the cage will become associated with bad things.

Use bones or hazardous toys. Don't give your dog fragile toys or potentially harmful bones to chew. It's advisable to keep an eye on your dog while she's practicing with a new toy or goodie.

Berate your dog. Don't punish or reprimand your dog verbally or physically.

Steer clear of stimulus and exercise. If the dog has not had appropriate training or activity, must not blame the dog. A bored dog may start acting up.

A sudden change in your pet’s behavior should warrant a call to your animal hospital Sarasota, FL. 

Why Glen of Imaal Terrier Make Ideal Family Pets

Glens are courageous dogs who will defend their family when necessary. They bark loudly to warn and alert you when someone is about to enter the house. Needless to say, they are ideal watchdogs. However, it's also for the same reason that these dogs are bound to be in trouble with their fellow pups. Although they don't start a fight, they also don't back down from challenges. Nevertheless, they eventually do well around canine friends, given the time. 

You can easily love this affectionate, intelligent breed, but be sure you're aware of their terrier traits before you decide to take them home with you. They love to dig and tend to be independent, not to mention they'll chase small animals. You may or may not like these characteristics in dogs, so be sure that you consider them first before buying a Glen. 

Take a proactive approach to your pet’s health with regular health and wellness checks at your animal clinic East Gwillimbury. 

Special Needs Of Giant Schnauzers

Giant Schnauzers aren't suitable for condo/apartment life. These dogs are highly energetic in and out of the house, so they need to have access to a well-fenced yard, which provides a safe way to consume energy. When Giant Schnauzers aren't outside, they prefer to spend time with their people at home, following you from room to room.

This breed needs at least 1 hour of exercise every day— it's best if you give them a few 30-minute walks or vigorous play. They tend to dig and chew a lot, though, and it's best to keep them occupied with a constructive task. 

Be sure to keep them constantly occupied to prevent them from becoming destructive. You may do this by training them for tricks or letting them help with your chores at home. These dogs shouldn't become bored, so don't make them do repetitive tasks and make training entertaining. 

Your vet clinic Newmarket, ON is a valuable resource regarding your pet’s health and needs.

Cat Care Tips

You know that cats are living beings that come in several varieties or breeds. These breeds have varied personalities that you must take note of and consider before even deciding which cat breed to take home. Why is it important for you to identify such qualities or characteristics? Knowing these things will help you make the right decision in selecting the cat variety and attending to her needs.

Understand that some cats are ideal for a quiet or calm lifestyle. These are those that prefer staying and living with an old woman who only occasionally gets visitors. These felines do not enjoy having noisy, naughty kids who can easily bother them. Other household pets may also stress these calm felines because of uncalled-for interaction at times.

In addition, if you are a busy person who cannot find time to attend to the grooming needs of your pet cat, do not consider adopting a Persian or a feline with a long fur coat. Why? Because having a cat with a long or thick coat means a long list of grooming needs.

Take a proactive approach to your pet’s health with regular health and wellness checks at your animal hospital Plano, TX.

Why Does Some Cats Suckle Into Adulthood?

You may see your beloved furry feline bite into soft, fuzzy, or warm objects like a blanket or soft toy. She may snuggle up with you and suck on your finger or your skin. This behavior is formally known as cat suckling. 

Cat suckling is normal behavior among kittens and growing cats. Not, however, that not all cats suckle because it is on a case-to-case basis. Kittens who are hand-raised or bottle-fed are prone to having this kind of behavior because they are weaned early from their cat mothers. And such behavior may last into adulthood.

So, do not get surprised when your adult cat remains to suckle. But what are the reasons why adult felines still do it? Here are some:

Suckling out of natural instinct. Yes, suckling is an instinctive behavior among cats. It is comparable to the thumb-sucking behavior among toddlers. The concept is just the same. 

Suckling for comfort. Kittens suckle a lot because doing it makes them feel comfortable or relaxed. 

Suckling for stress release. Since kittens find it comforting to suckle, it means most of them do it to relieve themselves from stress. Other indications of stress among felines can be seen through over-grooming behaviors, like tail-chewing, flank-licking, and paw-sucking.

Suckling due to genetic components. Oriental cat breeds (e.g., Balinese, Tonkinese, and Siamese) are at higher risk of bringing this behavior into adulthood than North American and European breeds. 

Suckling because of early weaning. Kittens who are taken away from their cat mothers and are weaned early excessively suck.

If you have concerns about your pet's health and/or behavior, make an appointment with your animal hospital Frisco, TX.