Welcome to Michael's Article Collection

Dog Health Problems - How to Identify Them and How to Tre...

An essential to your dog’s health is his/her regular annual checkup with the vet. Whether or not you choose to have your dog vaccinated* at this time, the annual chekup is also an excellent opportunity for a thorough physical examination to be carried out, and a time to discuss any minor problems or issues which you feel may be affecting your dog’s health or wellbeing. This is a time when your . . .

7 Things You Need To Know Before Buying A Chihuahua Puppy

They are everywhere – Chihuahua puppies… Practically everytime you turn on the tv, or open up a magazine, you see a Chihuahua puppy in a Hollywood starlets bag. Whether it be Paris Hilton’s sidekick Tinkerbell, or Reese Witherspoons lovable pooch Bruiser in “Legally Blonde,” Chihuahuas have hit the big time and everyone wants one: http://yourpetcentral.com/chihuahua-puppes.htm Now before you bu. . .

How Dogs Can Benefit Children

Thinking of getting a dog? You know your child wants a dog to play with but did you know that the love and companionship of a dog can have long lasting effects going far beyond their ability to entertain and amuse? The current research into dog assisted therapy has turned the humble pet dog into an emotional, educational and physical resource. Everything from autism to reading ability has been . . .

Top 5 Best Gifts For Your Pets

Most individuals or families view their pets as a member of the family as well. That said there is no reason why they should not be included in birthdays, Christmas or any other holiday for that matter. It’s a special day for them as well and it should be celebrated. So what are you going to get for your feline friend on their birthday? Why not consider some of these popular ideas which are sur. . .

Caring For And Raising Puppies

The raising of puppies can be an exhilarating and rewarding experience. It can also be an experience wrought with frustration if some guidelines aren’t adhered to or if certain aspects of the duty are overlooked. There are a number of things that you can do for the puppies and their mother to help make their first days, weeks, and months together healthy and happy ones.The mother dog will spend. . .

Why Pet Odor & Pet Stain Removal Products Works Only Some...

Why Some Pet Odor & Pet Stain Removal Products Don’t WorkHow often do you get a product that claims to work and you are disappointed with the outcome? As a carpet cleaning expert I see this all the time. It’s not that the companies selling these products don’t think that they’ll work for you, but their success is usually limited to “controlled” situations…let me explain: Pet odor removal is a. . .

Toys For Your Pet That Are Safe and Fun

There are plenty of toys on the market to keep your favorite pet entertained for hours on end, but there are also a number of factors to consider when purchasing toys for your pet. As with children’s toys, safety should be first and foremost in your thoughts when considering a new toy purchase for your pet. Be sure not to give your pet toys that can be broken up and potentially stuck in their. . .

How To Become A Successful Dog Trainer?

While reams have been written and expounded on training secrets and the psychology of the dog one often tends to forget that the “mason” is the one who lays the bricks and makes the building strong. In this case it is the “attitude” of the trainer. Have you wondered why some trainers have “a touch” while others just get by? Well it is because they are in complete synchrony with the dog. So, to. . .

Key Secrets To Remember In Dog Training

While training your dog please remember: Do not punish the dog. Punishment is not a training aid. It does little to foster willingness to learn and achieve. Limit yourself to a firm “NO” and to using your hands to block the dog’s negative actions. Refrain from hitting or physically abusing the dog. Display extreme levels of patience and persistence – never give up; if you do, you are relinquis. . .

12 Golden Rules For Every Dog Owner

Discipline and good behavior are not just for your Dog they apply to you, the pet-parent too. Buying a dog is not all “cochie coo” business -- it signals the beginning of a lifetime of commitment and responsibility. 1. Love your dog unquestioningly. Treat him like a friend. Never hurt, punish, beat or abandon him. Seek professional help if you are ever pushed against the wall – there are feasib. . .

What Should You Know About Your Dog Before You Start Trai...

In order to train your dog perfectly, you need to know him well – his needs, behavior, as well as moods. If you comprehend clearly the “world” of the Dog you will be able to train him perfectly --draw on his strengths and work on his weaknesses. As you know, dogs including have descended from animals that lived in packs and their everyday instincts are based on that social structure. You need . . .

Why do you need Canine Good Citizens certification?

If you want your dog to participate in dog activities like therapy groups then you need to obtain a Canine Good Citizens certification for your pet. The “Canine Good Citizens” certification is based on 10 steps that demonstrate the owner’s control over the dog, and the dog’s behavior in given situations. They are: Accepting a friendly stranger. Sitting politely while being petted. Spic and sp. . .

Top 5 Dog Health Problems

Dog Owner’s commonly ask me the same questions repeatedly. This article aims to help dog owners prevent and find information about the most common dog health problems. Understanding the basics of these problems will go a long ways to helping your canine friend live a long healthy life. 1. By far the most common question I get asked from dog owners is a desperate call about their dog’s vomiti. . .

How Many Cat Litter Boxes Do You Need?

The number of cat litter boxes available for your kitties is another key to good litter box habits. Many cats are fussy about their litter boxes, and if they aren't happy with number you provide, they communicate their unhappiness to you in most direct manner possible - they stop using the litter box.Here is some essential information for determining the minimum number of cat litter boxes you n. . .

Breeding Discus – 3 Ways to Encourage Spawning

So you have a mature pair of discus fish that have shown an interest in each other but there not laying any eggs.The most important factor in discus breeding in the water quality, make sure it is soft, acidic and clean. If you have this water, your most likely stressing over why there isn’t hundreds of eggs in the tank. If you have discus ready to lay eggs there are a few ways in which you can . . .

Questions to Ask When Choosing a Dog for Family Life

Dog’s come in all shapes and sizes – out of all the dogs you’ve ever met you’ve probably been more attracted to some breeds than others. Perhaps you had a dog when you were growing up and want the same breed for your children. But more needs to be determined than breed or size when choosing a family dog.How do you choose? What do you need to know? Here are some questions you must ask when choos. . .

Defend Your Dog and Stop that Hurting Paw!

Of course, we humans use shoes to protect our feet. We insist on it! But dogs usually don't have that luxury, and routinely walk over ice, rock, grass, cement and soil on their bare paws. Their paws' thick pads give them protection we don't have, and that's why they're less susceptible to cuts and grazes. But this doesn't mean a dog's paws are indestructible. In fact, the areas between the pads. . .

Dealing with a Dog Food Allergy?

Just as humans allergies can show up as a sneeze or rash, your dog's allergies can manifest as itchiness -- or even ear infections. In fact, if your dog's allergic to his food, it can cause him to scratch himself constantly, even with no obvious parasite problem. Dog allergies rarely get solved with medicine, so the best we can do for our four-footed friends is focus on prevention. Providing th. . .

Does Your Boston Terrier Want To Be With You?

This may come as a surprise...but if the tables were turned, and the Boston Terrier could choose his owner, would he have chosen you?We are always trying to figure out the right breed for us, and usually a dog is chosen on the "he's so cute and adorable" factor.But if in an upside down world, the dog was the one skipping around the neighborhood looking for the right owner, would you be chosen?I. . .

Four Common Skin Problems in Dogs

Dogs are susceptible to various skin problems -- which can be frustrating for owners who want to see Fido comfortable and happy. Does your dog have a skin problem, and if so, how do you fix it?That depends on the symptoms you see. Of course, the most common sign of a possible skin problem in your dog is constant, excessive itching. Other symptoms include fur loss, either localized in a certain . . .

Horse Training 101

Each horse is different in how it learns and how it reacts to outside stimuli. Certain methods of horse training may apply to some horses, but it does not mean that it will be effective to all breeds of horse.To start horse training you must develop a communication system with the horse. This might take time. In the same way as children may not fully grasp the idea of things at an instant, baby. . .

How To Care For Your Fishes Without Spending A Fortune

Whether you have a big sized aquarium with lots of fishes or just a glass bowl on your table with a couple of Gold fishes, they give you great pleasure and tranquility to see them.Fishes are most soothing pets, but they can be real delicate too. However you can take a good care for your fishes by remembering some small tips.Whether you are out for a couple of days, your fishes will be there wai. . .

Revealed! Secret training methods for your Dog!

Have you fallen under the spell of large limpid eyes and a saucy grin? Enchanted by the petite one with the grace of a ballet dancer and terrier –like qualities? Or were you taken by cute and goofy like appearance and personality of the larger breed of dog? Did you find the constant demand for attention alarming? Did the barking and/or nipping shock you? Were you astounded by the immense curi. . .

Your ‘Purrrfect’ Companion

Out of all the pet animals, the cat is most expressive about its needs. The feline loves to be pampered and cared for. Don’t you just love the pretty pussy pictures they make? They can also become ‘sulkily aggressive’ at times. Understanding their feelings and needs is not at all difficult.Just like your body language, behavior, and words give away your intentions and feelings, similarly, your . . .

The Facts You Need To Know About Adopting A Dog

Mum, dad, can we get a puppy? Its a plea that may parents will know only too well. How do you go about adopting a dog to make suure that the dog is happy and there isn't too much upheaval in your home?If you are thinking of adding a dog to your family, consider adopting your new best friend from an animal shelter or humane society. You'll not only get a good feeling from helping a homeless pet,. . .

Does Your Dog Miss You Too Much?

Your dog seems to be driving you up the wall lately, exhibiting serious behavior problems -- and no amount of verbal correction seems to work. She chews the furniture, gnaws on shoes, turns over the trash cans, howls and barks when you're not around, or even seems really depressed when you come home. There could be many reasons for behavior problems such as these, but chances are that your dog . . .

How to Recognize & Respond to Dog Aggression

The purpose of this article is not a how-to on correcting the behavior of an aggressive dog. That task is better left to dog trainers, veterinarians, and dog behaviorists. This article identifies seven basic types of dog aggression, however, and offers suggestions on how to communicate better with an aggressive dog to prevent injury from dog attacks.Many dog owners are bewildered when they h. . .

How To Keep Your Pet Python Happy?

There are literally hundreds of 'word of mouth' tips and tricks ... you need to know including all the hard to find Python information people just can't locate with internet searches or trips to the library! All it needs is the patience to learn them, and follow the advice and suggestions. If you're a committed python owner, and learn all you need to know about pythons and python rearing, y. . .

Enzyme Cleaners - The Only Effective Cat Urine Odor Elimi...

The first time a feline owner encounters an out-of-the-cat-litter-box experience, she probably uses whatever cleaners she has on hand. Initially, it appears she's cleaned the cat urine odor and stain from the location. However, in a matter of hours or days, she still smells the cat urine odor in the "clean" spot and can't figure out why it's still there.You can effectively clean cat urine odor . . .

Mabeka: Gorilla Teacher

Mabeke is a young gorilla who was born in captivity and then returned to the wild with several other gorillas of similar birth. I had an opportunity to meet Mabeke during one of the workshops I teach in Telepathic Communication with Animals.A young woman workshop participant named Fleur was employed by a Dutch organization that sponsored the gorilla program. Fleur's job involved teaching the . . .

German Sheperds

People love big, protective and loving dogs and that’s why there are a lot of german sheperd breeders. The German Shepherd is sometimes called an Alsatian because that’s where they originated in Germany. Many Germans still called them Deutscher Schaferhund because of their original sheepdog function but the breed is not very old and was really developed from a variety of sheep herding farm dogs. . .

How To Grow Daphnia For The Aquarium

The benefits of feeding live food to fish in a community tank are many: live food will improve vigor and color, and more closely resemble the food found in the fish's natural habitat. Live food is easily obtained. Some drawbacks include the transmission of diseases or parasites to the aquarium, it is time consuming to maintain the cultures, and a lot of space needs to be devoted to raising live. . .

Pet Memorial - In Remembrance of Our Special Pet Friends

Still remember that very moment when you first laid your eyes on your now, ever still most beloved pet? Feeling that very special bond between the both of you when you pick up that little fellow? It was sure such a sweet moment isn’t it? That little fellow just looks so adorable staring so innocently at you didn’t it? Little could we have ever imagine that, that little life would one day grow u. . .

How To Avoid Bad Doggy Behavior, And Teach Your Puppy Som...

A poorly trained dog can embarrass its owner and offend other people - or even make them feel threatened.Teaching your dog some manners is just common-sense. You did it with your children and your parents did it with you. If you had never learned right from wrong you would be behaving badly so why expect to be able to raise a dog without any coaching? He has lots to learn. There's a popular . . .

Teach Cats To Use Scratching Posts

Cats love and need to scratch. When they live in a house or apartment they will scratch whatever is available which usually turns out to be their owners best piece of furniture.Here are some tips to help teach your cat to use a scratching post instead of your favorite couch.Cats don't understand physical punishment. Punishment only breaks the trust that your cat has with you.It feels good to. . .

You Don't Get a Second Chance!

If you don't want to see your Pitbull put to sleep or even shot, please read this article.I'm sure you're aware of the bad reputation Pitbulls have. That reputation is mostly based on ignorance and irresponsible owners that don't take the time to learn about the breeds special needs. You see, alot of people buy a Pitbull and expect it to naturally turn into a perfect pet without any work on the. . .

Bullfight Blues

Spain's notorious Bullfight is one of the most famous customs upheld by the Spanish. It draws attention worldwide from people who just love the sport, and also from many others who are agains't this barbaric onslaught.I hasten to add that this kind of entertainment is not for me, but for many thousands that travel to watch a Bullfight they get the mingle with the dedicated locals who have a tra. . .

Bichon Frise: Hot Spots

“Hot spots” are surface skin infections caused when populataions of normal skin bacteria grow and overwhelm normal resistance. They ae generally curcular patches that lose hair, can be swollen, in extreme cases may exude smelly pus, and can be painfully itchy causing the dog to scratch, lick, or bite to the point of self mutilation. Untreated hot spots can spread and provoke a normally even-tem. . .

Choosing The Best Pets For Kids

"Can I have a puppy? Please, oh please, I'll take care of it and look after it and everything" Just what do you say to your kids when they ask for a pet? It is perfectly true that growing up with a family pet can teach children responsibility and to develop their social skills. Also cultivating good feelings towards pet animals helps kids to develop a sense of self esteem and help them to estab. . .

Why is an All Natural and Holistic Approach to Pet Food G...

Why is an All Natural and Holistic to Pet Food Gaining Importance? There is a significant increase in the market share of Natural and Holistic Pet Food, and it is predicted to double over the next five years. But why the sudden increase in our pets health? It seems that as we become more concerned with our own family's health and what we eat, it's natural to also be more concerned about what o. . .

Which Breed Is Right For You?

Why does one breed appeal to a person over another? Why do some of us love the size, looks and temperament of a Great Dane and others would never own anything but a Toy Poodle? Every breed has their pros and cons. As a prospective puppy buyer/dog owner, you must be aware of the traits, both good and bad, of the breed you are considering. Many pet owners own the breed they do because of an impul. . .

Introduce Your Puppy To New Situations... And Ensure Good...

They may seem to be bold explorers - sniffing at and mouthing just about anything - but all dogs have an instinctive fear of anything unfamiliar to them. Fear causes stress on the body, which affects long-term health. To help your dog avoid the negative health effects of stress, it is important to socialize her. Socialization is the process of exposing your dog to a wide variety of places, situ. . .

Pythons Are Becoming Common Pets

The days when people had only dogs or cats as pets are gone. Today, the number of people who have pets that were once considered unorthodox is on the rise. Python is one such pet.Pets, as we know, are fun. And pythons are big fun. They will make great companions and bring joy to your life. You will be fascinated by their self-effacing manner, laid-back attitude and giant-like appearance. But be. . .

Should You Get a Purebreed Dog for Your Family?

Many people ask the question: "Should we get a purebreed or a mutt?"Why is this question so controversial? Is one dog the same as another? Is there a benefit to 'getting what you paid for'?The truth is that one dog is like another - at least in many respects. What is not true is that every dog is equally suitable for your family. Dog rescuers may tell you to look beyond the breed and breeders t. . .

What you Need to Know about Cat Food

Cat Food Info #1 Cats Need Protein in their Cat Food The cat food you feed to your cat should always be rich in protein. This generally should come from meat, poultry or fish. Many cat food brands advertise chicken, beef, and tuna flavored cat food because they know that cats need protein and cat owners are looking for quality cat food. However, you need to make sure the cat food you buy has a . . .

Tumors in Tropical Fish

Tropical fish are like other species in many respects, and that includes the fact that they have diseases or disorders that may resemble those of other animals, but are specific to the fish themselves. One good example is tumors.Just as humans, cats or dogs may get cancer or other types of tumors, so can tropical fish. The main difference is that treatment in fish is nearly impossible, depend. . .

Choosing The Right Puppy Breed

For all too many, the process of choosing a puppy or puppies is based purely on how cute the puppy is or how playful its personality seems at the pet store or kennel. Granted, playful and cute puppies can really tug at your heart strings and urge you to make an impulsive and expensive decision regarding this very important addition to your family, but without proper thought and research into th. . .

Five Puppy Training Tips

Here are five easy to use training tips for your new puppy.1.) Chewing Problems - The most effective solution to a puppy chewing on something he shouldn't is to not discipline him, but to simply replace the object that he is chewing with a chew toy and then to raise him greatly for chewing on his chew toy. Positive encouragement is what a puppy will respond to the most.2.) House Training - The. . .

The Appeal of Animal Jewelry

Animal jewelry has always been popular. Even in ancient Egypt, people wore jewelry fashioned after animals like the cat and the ibis. In modern times, you see animal jewelry captured in charm bracelets and necklaces. Why is animal jewelry still popular today? Here are a few reasons to consider when you think about how appealing animal jewelry can be. 1) Animals are nice to look at.Who can ever . . .

Dog Flu: Can Your Dog Get It?

Dog flu, a highly contagious and sometimes deadly canine disease has been detected in a number of states and may be spreading around the country. Researchers reported that the mysterious dog flu is an influenza strain that jumped from horses to dogs. The dog flu is highly similar to the equine flu that's been in the U.S. for more than 40 years. Influenza has never before occurred in dogs. Human. . .

Fun loving Shih-Tzu’s

In my many years of grooming and caring for peoples wonderful dogs I have yet to see a breed who is more full of personality than the Shih-tzu. Shih-tzu's are top on my list of great companion dogs. If you are looking for lots of company this is your kind of dog. They are energetic & playful. They are very vocal & Shih-Tzu's have no problem actually telling you when they want something or when . . .

Finding the Best Pet and Best Friend

With the current number of puppy producing mills everywhere in the world, it’s an understatement to say that it’s DIFFICULT to find a genuine pet dog belonging to a genuinely friendly breed. Today, we have all kinds of mixed breed dogs, Great Danes with Golden Retriever legs, snippy headed American Eskimos, etc. The point is that we are looking for a pet dog, a family pet dog, not a show dog! B. . .

Allergic To Your Dog Or Cat?

Pets definitely help us live longer and healthier lives. This is especially true of the elderly and those of us who live alone. Pets make wonderful and faithful companions. They are always there for us. However, this relationship can become strained, and sometimes even be broken when someone in the household develops an allergy to a beloved pet.Studies show that approximately 15% of the populat. . .

Listen Up to Raise a Great Pup

The cute, loveable puppies you see prancing down the street with their owners has got you thinking. You want a puppy. You want the unconditional love and happiness that caring for a puppy can bring. However, you are not quite sure where to start your quest to find the perfect puppy. Friends and family have told you that different types of dogs are appropriate for different life styles. How can . . .

Kennel Cough In Dogs

The condition commonly known as “Kennel Cough” is one of the most prevalent infectious diseases that dogs can contract. The disease is not serious in most cases, however, and often resolves itself after one to two weeks. The accepted medical term for kennel cough is tracheobronchitis, indicating a form of bronchitis that affects the dog’s trachea.Kennel cough can be caused by several airborne b. . .

Hollywood – Gone To The Dogs?

There is no question that people in America love dogs. One look at popular culture in our country will prove beyond a shadow of a doubt that Americans have a love affair with dogs. Movies and TV shows about dogs go in and out of popularity and stories like Old Yeller and Where the Red Fern Grows are considered timeless classics. Only in America, however, do dogs manage to achieve celebrity stat. . .

Leptospirosis In Dogs

Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection that can affect a dog’s blood, liver, and kidneys. The bacteria that cause the illness are carried primarily by rats and other rodents, but dogs that are infected with the disease can infect other dogs as well. Ingestion of the urine of an infected animal is the most common means of transmission, but the bacteria can be contracted through damaged or thin s. . .

Have Fun With Your Little Kitten

This article is brought to you by http://www.cutelittlekittens.comDescription: Often, owners are frightened by their playfully aggressive cats and kittens because they look quite dangerous. Every housecat has a little tiger within it. So, the instinct to hunt is strong in all cats. So, as an owner of a pet cat or kitten, it’s not possible to ignore its basic need to hunt.Every housecat has a li. . .

Flea Control With Cats and Dogs

Fleas are the most common external parasite of pets in North America. Fleas are small wingless insects that use their specialized mouth to pierce the skin and siphon blood from their host. When a flea bites, it injects a small amount of saliva into the skin to prevent the blood from coagulating. Some animals become sensitized to flea saliva and animals that are allergic can have severe itching . . .

6 Different Dog breeds you don't know

Everybody has heard of the basset hound or the beagle. This type of dogs has proved to have many qualities or has been advertised a lot. The influence plays also an important role:if one of my friends. to whom I compete has just bought a pitbull, I should definitely bring about a Tossain. How about the Polish Owczarek Nizinny? i know nothing about it so this shouldn't be my choice. There are ma. . .