Why losing a pet hurts so much!

It’s natural to feel devastated by feelings of grief and sadness when you lose a beloved family member and to some people it is equally devastating to to lose their dog, cat, or when any of their pets die. 

Why does the loss of a pet hurt so much? This is one of the most common questions pet owners ask themselves. 

Most pet owners share an intense love and bond with their pets. For them, a pet is not only “just a dog” or “just a cat,” but rather a beloved family member, companion, giving fun and joy to our lives. Their pet can give meaning to their day, keeping them active and social. For some, their pets can also help them overcome setbacks and challenges in life and can even provide a sense of meaning or purpose. So it's natural that  when a cherished pet dies, pet owners will be tormented by grief and loss.

The pain of losing their beloved pets can often trigger different painful and heavy emotions. While some people may not understand the depth of feeling that a pet owner had for their pet, you should never feel guilty or ashamed about grieving for your beloved pet.

People respond to grief of losing a pet differently, the level of grief a pet owner experiences will vary on different factors such as age, personality, their relationship with their pet, the age of their pet and how their pet died. Usually, the stronger your bond with your pet, the stronger the emotional pain that you will feel.

Experiencing loss is an inevitable part when you own a pet but please remember that there are things that you can do to cope with the pain, lessen the grief and open your heart again to a new pet when the right time comes. 

Pet stores without puppy mills

The L.A. City Council will vote soon on barring pet stores from selling dogs from large-scale breeders. It's the right thing to do.

The Los Angeles City Council is expected to vote within a month on an ordinance to ban pet stores from selling dogs (as well as cats and rabbits) obtained from any supplier other than a shelter or rescue group. Though we are usually reluctant to support government-imposed constraints on what businesses can buy or sell — and we would ordinarily prefer to see the issue dealt with by tougher regulation — in this case we think the ordinance is justified.

Most dogs sold at commercial pet stores across the country come from large-scale commercial breeders, many or most of which are so-called puppy mills that put profit over the well-being of their dogs, according to animal welfare advocates. Such facilities are legal and must be licensed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, but studies show that many meet only the minimally allowable levels of care, housing, exercise, veterinary attention and record-keeping set by the federal Animal Welfare Act, if that. Some of the most egregious of these operations — where dogs are injured or found dead or conditions are highly unsanitary — are closed down or cited by authorities. But many bad operators continue to exist, overbreeding females in back-to-back heat cycles to the point that their bones break and their teeth fall out. Dogs and puppies alike end up crammed into filthy cages with little opportunity for exercise or socialization. Even the USDA urges breeders to exceed the law's standards.

What's more, the federal law is woefully under-enforced, according to a 2010 audit by the USDA's Office of Inspector General. Animal care inspectors failed to sanction appropriately, or quickly, breeders holding dogs variously infested with ticks or sores, suffering injured limbs, living in fetid cages, unsheltered from cold or hot weather, or using water and food dishes covered in vermin. During the three-year period of the audit, USDA officials made 8,289 inspections and found that 5,261 licensed dealers were in violation of the act. Since the audit, the USDA says the inspection program has been improved.

In the best of all worlds, federal and state laws governing breeding facilities would be overhauled to mandate better conditions for animals. But laws tightening up rules face powerful opposition from the pet industry and legislative allies of breeding businesses. Neither California nor Los Angeles, both of which have been early adopters of animal welfare laws and policies, have the ability to regulate out-of-state businesses.

Until better laws can be passed, the only way for a city to thwart these operations is to stop the flow of their animals into local pet stores. Most stores list the provenance of the animals for sale on cards attached to the kennels — but without actually visiting those breeding facilities, it's almost impossible to know what conditions are like there. Pet store industry representatives argue that some L.A. pet stores get their animals from small, relatively local breeders the retailers trust. Again, there's no way to know for sure what kind of breeding operation it is without visiting it — something that responsible breeders welcome and even request. Reputable breeders rarely sell to pet stores.

Los Angeles' measure is a drastic one, but it would expire in three years, giving officials an opportunity to monitor its effect and decide whether to extend the law, revise it or drop it altogether. If it passes, individuals would still be allowed to buy directly from breeders, and pet stores would be allowed to sell dogs, cats and rabbits that come from shelters, humane societies and registered rescue groups.

Each year the city's shelters euthanize thousands of cats and dogs that might have made wonderful pets. Best Friends Animal Society, a national organization, has already helped some conventional pet stores transition to a humane model and is offering the same assistance to any L.A. stores if the ordinance goes into effect.

Is It Finally Time to Give In and Get a Pet?

Isabella, 10, desperately wants a cat. For years she has been focused like a laser beam on this one goal, including it on every Christmas and birthday wish list, proposing bargains and sacrifices, volunteering at a cat shelter and swooning before every cat she meets.

But there was never a chance. Her father's "no" was based on his allergies and his belief that our children should pay all costs associated with pet ownership.

Then she fell in love with Kitty Kitty Kitty, a local grocery-store cat. The sight of Bella's smiles, with Kitty jumping on her lap and rubbing up against her face, softened John's stance. He began to imagine he could live with a cat, just keeping our bedroom door closed.

Maybe it's time to welcome an addition to our family. Maybe it's time for Bella to finally get what she has wanted for so many years.

***
There are all sorts of reasons for having a pet, and pet owners know them well. Pets can ease a child's loneliness and teach unconditional love. They help with important lessons about birth and death. They can also teach responsibility and empathy that will help children relate to other people in their lives.

John and I both fervently believe in all those positives. Where we part company is on the money.

John believes that kids learn these life lessons best if they're entirely responsible for the costs and care of the pets. When our girls were smaller, we underwrote a bunny and parakeets. But now that they're 10 to 15 years old and earning money from chores, John wants them to understand the true meaning of commitment and the impact a new dependent will make on your bottom line.

Last year Emily, 14, adopted a cockatiel, covering the fee and the cage with money from odd jobs. But Jasper costs her just pennies a day to feed; a cat is a much bigger-ticket item.

Bella was more than ready to hand over her entire $5 a week from chores forever, and tap her bank account, which has plenty to cover upfront costs and vet bills for the foreseeable future. But John didn't want her to spend savings on a pet. He thinks if she can't afford a pet on her cash flow, then it's not the right time to take one on.

I disagreed, saying the savings was her money, set aside for some unstated future purpose—why not spend it on something she'd been yearning for? On top of that, I consider it a parent's job to cover pet bills.

Most other parents I talked to feel the same way: They want the joy pets bring, while sheltering the children from adult-level concerns about finances.

My friend Michael's daughter found a guinea pig abandoned in Central Park. But, because of medical problems, the "free" animal ended up costing more than $1,000. Still, he says, the price was worth his daughter's happiness and the lesson it taught about loyalty, even at what he agrees is a "ridiculous" price.

And yet…I didn't push my point for a couple of reasons. First, because John is a stay-at-home dad, I feel like pets are his domain. Just as I tried not to mess up his masterful potty-training regimen and tried to respect John's preference that I not feed the girls junk food, I see the full-time parent as the pet policy maker.

Plus, the more I looked into it, the more I dreaded adding pet bills to our monthly financial reckoning. My sister in Los Angeles calculated that she spends $40 a month on each of her two cats, when food, litter, flea medicine and the annual vet bills are averaged in.

Then there are the potential catastrophic animal medical bills. Neither John nor I can imagine spending big money to save a pet's life in a medical crisis. But it's a position I would hate to be in: having to say no to spending thousands of dollars to save the life of an animal that my kids would no doubt love.

***
In the end, we didn't get a cat. As much as we would love to have granted this long-standing wish, our fear of the potential costs was greater than my confidence that Bella (or I) could cover them. There are so many other financial priorities lining up for us this year.

As we discussed the possibility over several weeks, we found other good reasons—nonfinancial ones—to avoid becoming cat owners, such as the air conditioning we would lose if we closed off a room, another child's suspected cat allergy, and the possible conflict between a cat and Emily's bird.

I was sad for Bella. Both John and I were sorry we had raised her hopes, only to dash them. But I'm glad we had a chance to teach the girls that such decisions aren't lightly made, that you shouldn't take on a new dependent unless you can afford to care for it well, and that everyone in a house has to support the addition of a new member.

Bella says she's proud that she got closer than her older sisters ever did to getting a cat. She has promised me grandkitties one day when she has a home of her own. But she has moved on to her next project. She wants to adopt a bird by next year.

Demetria Gallegos is community editor for WSJ.com. Write to her at SundayJuggle@wsj.com. You can join the conversation at WSJ.com/Juggle.

New pets may help autistic kids socially

Getting a pet may help children with autism to develop their social skills, if the furry friend is brought into the home when the child is about 5 years old, according to a new French study.

Researchers found that children with autism who got a pet after age 5 showed improvement in their abilities to share with others and to offer comfort, whereas those who had a pet since they were born, and those who never had a pet, showed no such improvement.

"In individuals with autism, pet arrival in the family setting may bring about changes in specific aspects of their socio-emotional development," the researchers wrote in their study.

However, the study was small, and little is known about how pets may influence family dynamics and children's development, so further studies are needed, the researchers said.

Animals and social skills

About one in 88 U.S. children are diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Autism can cause language delays, problems with social and communication skills and repetitive behaviors.

In the new study, researchers led by Marine Grandgeorge, of the Autism Resource Center at Hospital Bohars in France, looked at autistic children between ages 6 and 16 who were all attending a day-care facility in France.

The children's parents had completed a commonly used autism diagnostic test when the children were 4 or 5, and they completed it again at the time of the study. They also answered a questionnaire about their pets.

In one analysis, the researchers compared the social behaviors of 12 children with autism from families that got a pet after the child turned 5, with the behaviors of 12 autistic children who never owned a pet, but were matched with the pet owners for age, gender and general language abilities.

Results showed that those who got a pet, over time, showed fewer deficits in their abilities to share food or toys with their parents or other children, while those who never owned pets didn't show such an improvement. Additionally, those with pets also became better at offering comfort to parents or children who were sad or hurt, according to the study. The type of pet didn’t matter (although all the pets in the study were dogs, cats or hamsters), and neither did the child's gender.

In a separate analysis, the researchers compared eight children with autism who had a pet in their home since birth, with eight similar children who never owned a pet. They found that those who'd had pets their entire lives were no different than those without pets, in terms of how their social skills changed over time.

Additionally, the study showed that children who got a pet when they were young tended to interact with the animal, spending time petting it and playing with it. In contrast, those with pets since birth showed far fewer of these interactions.

The researchers noted that there were many social behaviors for which there was no improvement in the children who got a pet at a young age. The test they used, aside from measuring children's abilities to share and comfort others, also assessed behaviors such as social smiling, imaginative play with peers, and the ability to engage in a reciprocal conversation.

Why pets may help kids with autism

Pets can directly influence human behaviors. "When a human and a pet are interacting, each partner uses signals emitted by the other to adjust their behavior," the researchers wrote. Pets can also promote interactions between family members, which can promote a child's development.

But further explanation is needed to explain why the differences were seen between children with pets since birth and those who got them at a young age. It might be expected that the longer a child had a pet, they more benefited, but that's not what was seen, the researchers said.

It may be that the novelty of a new pet is particularly appealing to children with autism, or it could be that a new pet strengthens the family's bonds, and increases interactions between family members, they said.

The findings are published online today (Aug. 1) in the journal PLoS ONE.
Pass it on: A new pet may help autistic children develop better social skills.

Dog Collar Review

You can find a lot of different products online for our pets and sometimes we tend to forget how important it is to give attention to small details.

For example there are a lot of dog collars available at your local pet store and online and choosing one can be a mind boggling decision for some. There are even pet owners who are not fan of dog collars because of whatever reasons they may have. We usually ask store clerks or store owners to help us in our decision but only you ultimately know your dog best. For example, I usually buy harness for my dogs because I think that they are more comfortable using a harness compare to dog collars. Plus the fact that it usually lessens choking accidents with my dogs.

Did you know that there are dog collars ideal for small dogs, collars best for dogs that pull, collars for escape artists and dog collars specifically suitable for dogs with behavioral problems? Have you ever wondered why your dog pulls when you put his harness on, gags on the slip collar or slips out of the buckle collar when he gets excited? If you experienced any of the situation above that's mostly likely because you chose the wrong type of collar.

The following article is a comprehensive guide to Dog Collors which I found in voices.yahoo.com website.

A Comprehensive Guide to Common and Not so Common Dog Collars

Some collars are quite common and can be easily found at your favorite pet store but some are quite unheard of. Learn what type of collar is perfect for your dog and which you are better off avoiding. While dog collars should never be used as a substitute for training, they make a great addition to a good training program.

Buckle Collars
Also known as flat collars, these are the most common every-day type of collars and their name depicts them very well since they buckle. If the dog pulls, these traditional collars do not tighten automatically as some other collars. They come in different colors, materials and styles, however the most common are made of leather or nylon. In order to fit this collar well, it should be buckled snug but two fingers should be able to pass between the dog's neck and collar. This collar is good for dogs who do not pull much but should be avoided by dogs who pull to the point of coughing and gagging.

Pros:
Stocked in virtually all stores, can be worn most of the time (always keep an eye on your dog though).
Quite affordable in price.
The nylon varieties can be quite durable
They are ideal for attaching ID tags.
Some nylon buckle collars feature a ''quick release'' option similar to luggage strap fasteners which allow owners to get them on and off readily with no hassle.

Cons:
Adjust this collar too loose and your dog may slip out of it, adjust it too tight and your dog may cough and gag.
Some small and delicate dogs may get a collapsed trachea from wearing a buckle collar and pulling with too much force.
Some dogs learn how to back out of this collar when frightened or excited.

Martingale Collars
Also known as Greyhound collars, these collars are ideal for those dogs capable of slipping out of a buckle collar.They are great for dogs with necks larger than their heads (greyhounds, whippets and other sight hounds). If your dog has learned how to free itself from its traditional collar, this is the collar for you. It is loose when not in use, but once engaged becomes snug enough to prevent escaping. Made of two loops, the larger loop slips over the dog's neck, whereas the smaller loop is used to attach the leash to its ''D'' ring. Tension from the leash makes this small loop taunt so the larger loop around the dog's neck tightens but without choking or constricting the airway as some other collars.

Pros:
Effective against dogs slipping out of collars but without having an uncomfortably tight collar.
They are mid range in between buckle collars and slip collars.
Good for dogs with necks larger than heads.

Cons:
May cost more than regular collars.
May not be found in all pet stores
Not designed for carrying tags so may need to be worn with regular buckle collar.
Not meant to be worn most of the time.

Limited Slip Collar
Also known as Alaskan collars since they were used on sled dogs, these collars are a good solution for dogs who tend to slip out. They are similar to a buckle collar, but at a closer inspection they lack a buckle or clip and rather have a large ring to attach the leash to. They are worn by slipping it over the dog's head. Limited slip collars, as the martingale collars, are comfortable but tighten about two inches upon pulling but without choking the dog.

Pros:
Effective against dogs who slip out of collars but without constricting
Can be used as regular daily collars.
Ideal for attaching ID tags
Good for dogs with lots of fur around their necks since their loose fit does not break the hair.

Cons:
Not easy to find, may need to be special ordered.
Determined dogs may chew the attachment point if left unsupervised.

Choke Collars
Also known as slip collars or choke chains, these chain collars tighten automatically when the dog pulls. They should never be used on puppies. The right way to fit the collar is to slip the chain through one of the two end rings. This should create a large circle which will slip over the dog's neck leaving a ring to attach the leash to. When worn correctly, the choke collar will look like a ''P''.

Pros:
When used correctly, a leash ''pop'' may help train a dog to heel, but there are more positive ways to train nowadays (and should ideally be used first)
Cons:
Some dogs may slip out of them by lowering their heads
Considered by positive reinforcement trainers an old-fashioned punishment based tool
Can cause injuries when used incorrectly
Requires a dog trainer to show correct use
May get caught around hair on dog's neck
should never be left on dog unattended as may cause strangulation
Unlike martingales and limited slip collars, there are no barriers to prevent choking.

Prong Collars
Also known as pinch collars, these collars look like medieval torture devices but used correctly they may be kinder than choke collars. They should never be used on puppies. May work for hyper dogs but can aggravate fear or certain aggressive problems. This collar cannot be worn by slipping it on the dog's neck, it needs to be opened and closed by joining and separating the links. Works by delivering a ''pinch'' in the neck area which resembles a dog's bite.

Pros:
When used correctly they can help teach a dog to heel ( serve as power-steering) but there are more positive ways to train nowadays (and should ideally be tried first)
Does not put strain on the trachea

Cons:
Should never be worn when unattended
Require a trainer to show correct use
Considered by positive reinforcement trainers as a punishment based tool
Not suitable for fearful or aggressive dogs
Can break apart and fall off; it's best if worn with a buckle collar just in case
Must be worn correctly to work
May be challenging to put on and take off for novice users

Head Collars
Also known as a ''gentle leader'' or ''halter'' since it closely resembles a horses' halter, head collars are a good solution for owners of dogs who pull. Often erroneously confused for muzzles, head collars are often used in behavior modification programs since they help prevent jumping, lunging, pulling and provide give better control.

Pros:
Prevents strain on the trachea
Dogs readily responds to pressure
Good for behavior modification programs,
Cons:
Not suitable for brachycephalic dogs with short muzzles
Dogs may have a hard time getting used to wearing them
May cause skin abrasions or neck injuries.

Harnesses

A harness is not really a collar since it does not go around a dog's neck, but it is often sold in the same aisle with other collars. It makes a good solution for small and delicate dogs since it prevents strain on the neck, the main cause for collapsed trachea. They are also good for dogs with neck and other respiratory problems. When worn correctly, two fingers should be able to fit beneath it.

Pros:
Ideal for small dogs, no more strain on the dog's neck since it fits around dog's chest and rib cage
Difficult for a dog to slip out of even small headed ones.

Cons:
May take some time for some dogs to get used to
Have a reputation for encouraging pulling because of the ''opposition reflex''. Indeed harnesses are used on sled dogs to encourage pulling.

Front Connection Harnesses
These look like normal harnesses, but unlike them, the leash is connected to a ring in front of the dog's chest. One of the most popular versions is the ''Easy Walk'' harness by Premier. They are good for behavior modification since they train a dog to stop lunging and pulling.

Pros:
Do not put strain on a dog's trachea
Ideal for behavior modification programs

Cons:
May take a bit of time for a dog to get used to them
Require some initial training to teach dog not to pull.

Pet Ownership is Good For Your Health

The companionship afforded by our pets is widely recognized, but, recently, research has been carried out to confirm the therapeutic advantages of sharing your life with an animal. In fact, benefits of pet ownership include increased physical and mental well-being. In turn, it is believed that people who have pets are typically happier and are likely to live longer than their non-pet owning counterparts are.

The Problem of Pet Allergies

Obviously, this does not extend to those with allergies or phobias. If you are scared of, or allergic to, your animal then, clearly, it is unlikely to have a positive effect on either physical or mental wellbeing.

However, pet allergies can be overcome if you still wish to welcome a pet into your life. For example, many people can find a pet that does not cause an allergic reaction, such as fish, lizards or snakes. On the other hand, there is the option of allergy shots, which can reduce the reaction caused by pet hair, feathers and fur, but this should always be discussed with a medical professional.

Health Benefits of Pets

The principle benefit of pet ownership is a positive effect on a human's level of stress. It is believed that stress levels are markedly reduced by the presence of an animal. In turn, this leads to healthier blood pressure and less chance of a heart attack, or other medical issues connected with stress. Additionally, conditions such as depression are believed to be alleviated by pet ownership. Moreover, biologists believe that the deterioration of Alzheimer's patients can be reduced with the help of a pet in the house.

In fact, elderly people are thought to be particularly helped by owning an animal, because a pet provides a source of company. Therefore, a pet ensures that feelings of loneliness are decreased. Additionally, a pet can offer a sense of purpose, which is crucial to all human beings. For those who live alone, it is nice to feel needed and wanted.

Of course, there are many other therapeutic benefits to pet ownership. For example, it is recognized that the routine required when looking after an animal is good for psychological wellbeing. In addition, a dog's requirement for daily exercise gives its owner a workout and, as is widely recognized, the health benefits of fresh air. Simply walking a dog can help an owner to control his, or her, weight and provide much needed activity, which releases endorphins (otherwise known as the happy hormone).

Moreover, having a pet that is always pleased to see you can be infinitely good for your health. The bond between animals and humans is incredible and is thought to have homeopathic benefits. Many owners look upon their pets as members of the family and an overwhelming high proportion admit to talking to their animals. In other words, although the companionship of animals should not be a replacement for human friends and family, the unconditional love provided by them is incredibly good for our mental health.

Responsibility of Pet Ownership

On the other hand, it is important for all pet owners to realize the great responsibility involved in taking on an animal of any kind. No pet should be purchased purely for the potential health benefits. In addition, owners should not be fooled into thinking that more pets will offer greater therapeutic benefits. In fact, the reverse can be true, because you may be overwhelmed by the work to look after multiple animals. Typically, one or two pets are ample to produce a discernible improvement in overall health.

Most importantly, it is crucial for potential pet owners to recognize the life-long commitment that an animal requires. Therefore, it is wise to research your pet of choice and ensure that he, or she, is the right animal for your house.

Samantha Markham is writing on behalf of Remmeer.com, a supplier of pet gifts, such as pet lover gifts and dog picture frames & albums.

Is it o.k. to feed grains to our dogs?

Another great article i found on the net.

Why do I need to separate certain food items, like RMBs, veggies and grains, and why can't I feed them together?

In Pat Lazarus book, "Keep Your Dog Healthy the Natural Way," under the topic of food combining he states:

"How you combine food groups can be crucial to your dog's health. Why? The digestive organs secret enzymes to break down food so it can be properly used by the body. When carbohydrates and proteins are eaten at the same time, the protein enzymes go to work first, and the digestion of carbohydrates must wait. While the carbohydrates are waiting around to be digested, they ferment and release toxins in the body.

Proper food combining might more aptly be called not combining foods: Give only meat (or other heavy proteins such as eggs or milk) at one meal; give carbohydrates (fruit & grains) for the other meal. Vegetables, though may be given with either grains or heavy proteins."

He goes on to mention this can also help in preventing pancreatitus.

Also, grains and meats should not be fed together but veggies can be feed with either, with no loss of nutrients. Fruits, except apples, should be feed alone and at least twenty minutes before or after anything else. Back to top of page

Is it o.k. to feed grains?

Grains are not a natural food for dogs. It is not something they would eat in the wild. Those grains they would have access to would be in small quantities eaten from the stomachs of prey animals who had (in the right season) eaten some grasses that had seeded. These grains would also not look like our modern grains - more like wild rice (check it out at the supermarket and compare to domestic types).

Grains are also full of carbohydrates which can be easily converted to sugars. Cancer cells feed on sugars and it is believed that by decreasing the amount of carbohydrate in the diet, we may greatly reduce the risk of cancer (which is a growing problem among modern dogs).

So, in answer to your question, yes, grains can be fed; however, please keep the following in mind (when feeding grains), taken directly from a Dr. Billinghurst seminar: grains are not a natural food for dogs; dogs do not, in fact, need carbohydrates; carbohydrates are easily converted into sugars which feed cancer. Remove the carbs and the cancer has less/nothing to feed on; and grains are one of the major causes of allergies in dogs, and can also cause flatulence (gas..PHEW!!!)!.

source: i-love-dogs forum

Apple Cider Vinegar

I found this in one of the forums that i joined. Interesting facts about Apple Cider Vinegar for your dogs. read on...

Apple Cider Vinegar In their book, The Holistic Guide for a Healthy Dog, Wendy Volhard and Kerry Brown, DVM, note that “Apples contain a large amount of potassium plus phosphorus, chlorine, sodium, magnesium, calcium, sulfur, iron, fluorine, silicon, and many trace minerals. . . . ACV (apple cider vinegar) is credited with killing bacteria outright. . . .” Depending on the size of the dog, add 1/4 teaspoon (toy dogs) to 3 tablespoons (dogs over 50 lbs) total per day to their meals. Itchy skin is a sign that the skin is too alkaline in nature. Fleas and ticks do not find acidic skin desirable to live on, hence the importance of maintaining a slightly acidic body (for dogs, the normal pH range is 6.2-6.5). You can use straight ACV as an after-bath rinse; before going out into the country; and on beginning hot spots. If the skin is already broken, dilute the ACV 1:1 with water and spray it on the coat. As an ear rinse, use several drops of the 1:1 dilution weekly to avoid ear infections. These health conditions and others (including sore joints and the beginnings of arthritis), indicate a potassium deficiency, so ACV is a cheap way to help your animal’s health issues. For internal consumption, be sure to purchase an ACV product with the “mother” in it (i.e., should be raw unfiltered ACV), not the kind you buy at the grocery store. A good brand is Bragg’s, which can be found at health food stores. For external use such as to help rebalance skin pH and repel insects, I've found that the grocery store version seems to work fine, diluted 1:1 with water.

How many pets allowed in homes?

How many pets do you think should be allowed in homes?

The number of animals allowed in homes differs in every county, town or individual homeowners' association.

Though there are many governing bodies that has ordinances addressing the number of domestic animals - dogs, cats and other pets - a person may own, for you how many pets should be allowed for every home? and Why?

Some counties, like Lake County, allow homeowners in unincorporated areas who live on between half and one acre of land up to four cats and four dogs. In Palatine, three animals are allowed. Other communities set the limit at two pets per home.

But while numbers vary, most officials agree some restrictions are needed for the health of the animals and humans.

Rules of the house for pets

I saw this in one of the forums i frequent visit... hope this makes you smile somehow...

Dear Dog and Cat,
When I say move, it means go someplace else, not switch positions with each other so there are still two of you in the way.

The dishes with the paw prints are your and contain your food. The other dishes are mine and contain my food..(Please note, placing a paw print in the middle of my plate does not stake claim for it becoming your food & dish, nor do I find that aesthetically pleasing in the slightest).

The stairway was not designed by NASCAR and is not a racetrack. Beating my to the bottom is not the object. Tripping me doesn't help because I can fall faster than you can run.

I cannot buy anything bigger than a king size bed. I am very sorry about this. Do not think I will continue to sleep on the couch to ensure your comfort. Look at videos of dogs and cats sleeping. They can actually curl up in a ball. It is not necessary to sleep perpendicular to each other stretched out to the fullest extent possible. ( I also know that sticking tails straight out and having tongues hanging out the other end to maximize space used is nothing but sarcasm ).

My compact discs are not miniature frisbees.

For the last time, there is no secret exit from the bathroom. If by some miracle I beat you there and manage to get the door shut, it is no necessary to claw, whine meow, try to turn the knob, or get your paw under the edge to try and pull the door open. I must exit through the same door I entered.
( In addition, I have been using the bathroom for years...canine or feline attendance is not mandatory ).

The proper order is kiss me, then go smell the other dog or cats' butt.
I cannot stress this enough. It would be such a simple change for you.

RULES FOR NON-PET OWNERS WHO VISIT AND LIKE TO COMPLAIN ABOUT PETS:

1. They live here, you don't.
2. If you don't want hair on your clothes, stay off the furniture.
3. I like my pet better than I like most people.
4. To you it's an animal. To me he and or she is an adopted son or daughter
who is short, hairy, walks on all fours and is speech challenged.
5. Dogs and Cats are better than kids. They eat less, don't ask for money all
the time, are easier to train, usually come when called, never drive your
car, don't hang out with drug using friends, don't drink or smoke, don't
worry about buying the latest fashions, don't wear your clothes and don't
cost a million dollars for college.

How dogs drinks water

Here's a short video where you can see a dog lapping at a bowl of water in real time. Most people (including me) think that when a dog drinks, he creates a kind of spoon with the top of his tongue and brings liquid back to his mouth. At first you will think that it seems this way but if you slow down a film of the process things are not really as they appear.

Things you need to consider before adopting a new dog.

Dogs are created unique from one another. The variations in nature and traits among dog types can be compared to dissimilarities in people. Finding the right match between the dog type with the holder or family is the key to success in getting a dog into your home.

Dogs come in numerous varieties that are naturally introduced to the dog world and those produced purposely by breeding two different dogs, for example Labradoodle (cross of Labrador Retriever and a Poodle).

You should ask your family what dog type you can have. A house with a large yard is sufficient room for a huge dog to run and play.

Are you looking for a dog type that is strong, yet cuddly and good with kids? Are you hoping of getting a guard dog for your business? Do you want to own a show dog to enter competitions?

Maybe you just want to have a loyal companion, small enough to have in your home and calm enough to sit with his head on your lap in the evening? These are some concerns to think about as you look for the right type of dog.

Are you living alone in your home? If you are the type of person who works long hours then choose a dog breed that can handle with many alone time at home – maybe dogs that enjoy toys and entertains himself.

If you live with little children a medium to large-size dog is more appropriate because this breed of pet dog is calm by nature and also patient with children. Children often think that their dog is like a toy – your children don't understand that pets are living; breathing being that can get hurt by their actions.

There are some breeds that are not patient with the bad behavior of small children, but would be great with grown-up kids. A perfect choice of dog for older people is a breed that doesn’t need that much maintenance.

Dogs can also be divided into two important types - those that shed a lot and those that do not shed. Dog shedding is a huge trouble of people who have dogs. Dog fur clings to furniture, clothing as well as your guests who sit anywhere in the house. Although short haired dogs may seem easier to groom but they too can shed. Shedding can be grouped into barely sheds, seasonal only shedding and constant shedding.

Another significant factor to consider is the size of the dog. Smaller dogs weigh less than 10 pounds, medium dogs weigh 11-25 pounds, large dogs weigh 26-50 pounds and extra large dogs weight 51-80 pounds. There are also extremely large breeds that can reach up to 100-180 pounds. Now you see why size is also a big factor in picking a dog that is suited for you.

Do you think your furniture can take that much weight of dog? In picking a dog always remember to base your decision on the size the dog will grow to as an adult dog and not on the appearance of the puppy.

Big dogs are also big eaters. If you bring home a Mastiff, you may need a second job just to pay for the health care.

Care requirement is another important consideration. There are dog breed that need more grooming than others. Dogs like poodles or show dogs may spend a little more time in grooming centers than you do. An ordinary breed may need weekly grooming to keep their coats tangle free. Take time to research about the dog breed that you want. Check the dog breed’s temperament, size, and grooming requirements before you make a choice. Researching those important information will surely save you a lot of time and avoid any problem in taking care of the dog. It is only fair to the dog you picked that you be ready for the dog’s basic needs, aside from providing them love and attention that only you can give.

why you should adopt a dog from a dog shelter or dog rescue

Here are reasons why you should adopt a dog from a dog shelter or dog rescue.

1. When you adopt a dog you will be able to save a life. There are a lot of loving and wonderful companion dogs that are being euthanized every year at dog shelters and dog pounds because there is not enough room or resources to care for them. So when you adopt a dog you also decrease the number of pets and dogs that are euthanized each year.

The demand to buy puppies at pet stores is due to the insatiable desire to buy pure bred puppies because people tend to think that they are getting good dogs when they buy it in pet stores. It doesn’t mean that dogs at a dog shelter or those dogs that are only pure bred are worth having.

2. There are pet stores that buy their puppies from puppy mills or breeders that operates one. Dogs from puppy mills are often the product of in breeding. Those dogs usually have genetic health problems that will surely hurt your heart and wallet with veterinary bills.

Just think of the condition of those pups that are kept in the horrible puppy mills. After they breed non stop they are disposed like trash once they can no longer produce litters. Click here for more info about puppy mills.

3. You give a fraction of the price when you adopt a dog or puppy at a dog pound or rescue compare to what pet stores charge for “pure bred” dogs.

4. The money you pay when you adopt from dog pound or rescue will be used to save more dog lives.

5. You usually find the most loving dogs at dog shelters.

6. Many dogs are in dog pound and rescue because of several reasons but whatever it is, isn’t it great to save a dog that is sitting caged on doggy death row. Why death row? Because many dog shelters only keep dogs a few days before killing them and some can’t afford for those pets to stay longer in their pound.

7. Another reason why you should adopt is that if you don’t have the time for the demands of life with a new puppy because puppies need a good deal of nurturing, training. You will also find fully grown dogs in dog pounds and rescues that are already ready for a new home, just needing your love and regular doggy care.

8. If you have a senior citizen in your family. A dog is suited to enjoy your family member’s golden years. Senior dogs are calmer and usually with less energy than a young dog which are perfect companion for mom, dad or any senior.

9. You will find wide variety of dogs that are ready to be adopted at dog shelters and dog rescues. You will surely find in dog shelter or dog rescue whatever you are looking for in a new dog.

10. Lastly, when you adopt not only that you will save a dog’s life, save money, help in the battle to put puppy mills out of business but also help save those dogs that are just being used to breed and make money.

Puppy mills

Someone asked me if I want to buy a new dog. I asked the man where the dog came from and asked if he can show me some papers. He wasn’t able to produce any papers or identification so I declined his offer. I worry about the puppy. I bet it came from puppy mills.

What are Puppy mills? It is a breeding facility that produces purebred puppies in large numbers and the puppies are usually sold either directly to the public via the Internet, ads, at the mill itself. There are some people pet shops that sell puppies from Puppy mills.

If you are thinking of buying a new dog read first about this information. Over breeding, inbreeding, minimal veterinary care, poor quality of food and shelter, lack of socialization with humans, overcrowded cages, and the killing of unwanted animals; these are just few of the problems with puppy mills. Dogs that came from puppy mills usually need of immediate health and veterinary problems, worst some of the puppies have genetically borne diseases that do not appear until years later.

Dogs are forces to live in puppy mills just for the sake of producing more puppies and once their reproductive capacity declines they are killed. Puppy mills should be stopped and such activities shouldn’t be tolerated! If you know any puppy mills that do such activities report it to USDA or The United States Department of Agriculture. The USDA is in charged of enforcing AWA or Animal Welfare Act to those puppy mills that violates the AWA law.

The Deadly Violence with Dog Fighting

One of the cruelest and deadliest games I’ve ever seen! You will find this deadly game in inner city alleys, quiet suburban backyards, and isolated locations. Scarred pit bulls on chains waiting for their turn in the pit! You will find dogs maul each other until one of them is unwilling or unable to fight and worst sometimes the fight will go on till one of the animals is dead!

The appeal of dog fighting's violent nature to gamblers has made this bloody and brutal game a popular pastime since early 1800s and today dog fighting remains one of cruelest exploitation of animals. Dog fighting is also associated with other illegal activities and crime such as money laundering and drug trafficking.

Dog fighting is against the LAW!

It’s hard to get figures on how many dogs are suffering from these kinds of violent activities. The dogs used in these kinds of activities can, while victims can also be very dangerous because they are raised to be brutally aggressive. Fighting dogs are not only a treat to other animals but to people as well. If dog fighting is present in your community, your children and pets are also at risk for attack form fighter dogs.

Whether losing or winning every dog fight can be a dog's last fight! Broken bones, deep bite wounds and internal injuries are some of the injuries a dog can get from these fight if not death. Sadly, even if they survive the fight alive their injuries are usually not being treated so I will not be surprised if those dogs die from blood loss or internal injuries.

So how can we help those poor animals?

There are still states where dog fighting is only a misdemeanor. This kind of blood sport is a menace to our community and despite the fact that it is already considered illegal in all 50 states there are still people doing it! 48 states have already made dog fighting a felony crime so if you really want to help, you can write to your state legislators and urge them to make it a felony.

We also ask you to spread this information to your friends and family. By doing this you will increase public awareness of the gruesome violence of dog fighting.

Dog fighting is an issue that should be taken seriously. You may want to display our dog fighting article to your community website.
Lastly, if you think that dog fighting is going on in your own neighborhood, alert your local authorities!

That’s it for now. I’ll post more information about dog fighting later. We need to do our part to stop dog fighting!

- image by

www.workingpitbull.com

Witnessing Animal Abuse or Neglect

People who witness animal abuse or neglect should report it to authorities. They should contact their local humane society, animal shelter, or animal control agency as soon as possible. Those agencies can help you and the poor animal because they have the power to enforce state and local laws related to animals. Aside from that they also have the capability to investigate and resolve animal abuse situations. We should do our part in protecting these animals from cruelty, abuse and neglect. If you do not help them who else will? Concern citizens are the eyes and ears of the community.

If your concerns are your safety, don’t worry because you can choose to remain anonymous when reporting such instances but giving your name to your humane agency will enable them follow up with you when necessary and to make a better investigation.

Please comment on this post to include your local shelter contact number or authorities that can help animals suffering from abuse, cruelty and neglect.

Going Vegetarian!

If you are looking for reasons why you should go vegetarian you should watch the video and see for your self why!

Watch more videos at PETA.org

10 most intelligent / least intelligent dogs

How smart is your dog?

I saw this entry from somewhere. It is a list of the 10 most intelligent / least intelligent dogs. check if your dog is on the list.

read more | digg story