Welcome to Michael's Article Collection

4 Things Frustrated Dog Owners Should Know

You’ve probably had a day or two when you felt like your dog just wasn’t paying any attention to you at all, right? You talked, you yelled, you shouted, maybe you jumped up and down and waved your arms, but she just wasn’t interested in anything you had to say to her in any tone of voice. You’re not alone. 1. Your dog isn’t human.Unless you believe in pet psychics, there’s really no way for you. . .

Is Pet Dental Health Really Important?

Many veterinarians stress the importance of oral hygiene because tooth and gum problems are common medical conditions seen in pets. If left unchecked, an unhealthy mouth can affect the liver, kidneys, heart and even the brain. So when you lean in to give your pet a smooch, ask yourself “Does my pet need a breath mint?” Studies show that 98% of pets with bad breath are suffering from severe plaq. . .

Dogs And Pets Provide Health Benefits

Do dogs provide health benefits? Believe it or not they do! Did you know that owning a dog and pet ownership in general, can help a person in many ways? Owning a pet can improve your mental wellness, reduce your visits to the doctor, improve your cardiovascular health and allow for faster recovery time from surgery as well as higher survival rates. Recent research suggests that dogs may be able. . .

How To Eliminate Your Puppy's Love of Nipping

If you've ever been nipped by a puppy, you know those teeth can be as sharp as ice picks. While other dogs generally have thick skin and can handle a nip relatively undamaged, we humans are not quite so fortunate. And yes, a puppy bite can definitely break skin.So how do you put a stop to your puppy's nipping?First, it helps to understand that he's not biting maliciously. Biting and mouthing ar. . .

Tips For Choosing The Right Dog For Your Family

Every family needs a dog, they are the perfect way to round out life at home. Kids love dogs and adults love dogs and lets face it they make for fantastic company. These are even the right animals to get you off your butt and exercising. Having to walk the dog each day is a great way to get yourself back in good health and good shape.But what dog is the right one for your family? That is a good. . .

The Benefits of Therapeutic Horseback Riding

Since the dawn of time, mankind has had an interesting relationship with animals. In some ways, the history of modern man is intimately linked to our interaction with animals. Dog's, for instance, have long been considered man's best friend. Any dog owner will gladly confirm this for you. Cat's, too, have been living in close quarters with man for literally thousands of years.In modern time. . .

Give Plenty of Thought to Selecting Your New Dog

Give Plenty of Thought to Selecting a New DogHow would you go about selecting a new dog for your pet? Would you get a mean looking attack dog? How about a member of the toy breeds? First, think about what you want to accomplish and give careful consideration to other members of the family. Your new dog will actually become a member of the family and for many years. Nowadays, dogs live longer th. . .

Upgrading Your Underground Dog Fence without Spending a F...

My dog used to be a darter. One of those canines that would see an opening and take off. He’s been hit by a car twice now, neither really that bad, and has been lost more times than I can count. Even at the old home, where a fence has existed for years, the 100 pound lab would simply hop the thing and joy ride if no one was around. It had gotten to the point that I couldn’t even let him outside. . .

How to Make a Smooth Move with your Pet - Moving with Exo...

A lot is written how to move with dogs, cats or even fish. But what if your beloved ones are far more exotic and unusual than other people's pets, don't they need some special and accordingly unusual care during the move? If you are the lucky owner of, say, a snake or a hamster here are few suggestion for your smooth with them:The first thing to remember when moving reptiles is to keep them moi. . .

Are You Ready for a Dog?

The decision to buy or to adopt a dog is not one that should be taken lightly. It is a serious commitment and there are several factors to consider. Are you really ready to have a dog? As fun as dogs can be, it is a serious decision. You are planning to take responsibility for a living creature that is completely dependent on you. Dogs require food, shelter, health care, exercise, attention, lo. . .

Housbreaking an Older Dog

Housebreaking an older dog is not an impossible task. Although it is generally easier to housebreak a puppy, any dog can be housebroken given the proper techniques. First, before you begin, you must know how a dog thinks. I would say that a dog thinks 80% of the time with its nose, and the rest of the time with its other senses. If you look at animals in the wild, you’ll notice that most mammal. . .

Getting a Puppy? Make the Right Choice

We all love a sweet, cuddly-faced puppy. Who wouldn’t? But those little bundles of joy grow up and we must make an informed decision in order to have a happy household.Each breed of dog has its own set of characteristics and quirks. These can either be endearing or run us batty, depending upon our own personalities. Small dogs can be yappy and are often like small children. Some breeds, like th. . .

Puppy Care: Introducing Puppy to an Older Dog

Bringing home a new puppy is an exciting experience! The puppy is excited, you are excited, but what about your older dog? You remember, the one who has been an only dog for years. It can be done and fairly effortlessly at that.Dogs, for all their domesticity, still have a pack mentality. You, of course, are the alpha, or head dog. Your older dog will be the beta, or second in command. When bri. . .

Dogs Beg The Question: Is There Training Available For Ou...

The focus of many pet owners seems to be directed towards their animals, which makes a great deal of sense in most cases. However, when trying to correct unwanted behavior in your dog you might want to point that finger inward sometimes and have a little glimpse in the mirror. It is easy to become annoyed with your pet when you feel as though you have tried everything and nothing seems to work.. . .

Buying a New Puppy? How To Avoid the Pitfalls

Many books and articles have been written regarding the art of choosing a puppy (i.e. performing puppy tests, looking for parental OFA certifications, and so on...), but few, if any, discuss the contractual end of purchasing a puppy. I can tell you through personal experience that purchasing a quality show puppy from a famous breeder can be quite a stressful experience because no breeder would . . .

Different Kinds Of Cat Collars

Although collars are generally thought to be for the canine kind, many cat owners choose to purchase collars for their favorite felines. There are many different kinds of cat collars on the market, so it is imperative that you choose the best option for your cat’s needs and body. Consider taking your cat along on a shopping trip to your local pet store—most welcome animals of all types—and try . . .

Labrador Grooming - Trimming Your Labrador Retrievers Nails

Regular nail trimming is important to your Labrador Retrievers health and well being. Nails that are not properly clipped can crack and split, which can lead to infection in that area. Long nails can be uncomfortable for your Labrador and for an owner’s leg. A regular trimming, at least once a week or every two weeks, will save both you and your Labrador Retriever a lot of pain and aggravation.. . .

Should Outside Cats Use A Collar

Most cat owners find themselves in a quandary over whether or not to use a cat collar on their outdoor cats. The debate still reigns over the pros and cons of outfitting an outside cat with a collar, but many veterinarians and cat experts agree that collars are the best way to go. However, before you decide, take a look at these pros and cons:Pros:• Cat collars can hold identification and regis. . .

Protecting Sea Turtles

Sea turtles are being protected around the world. National parks are set up along with farms and other organizations that are attempting to protect them. Sea turtles are a difficult animal to protect though because of their migratory habits. They aren’t the kind to stay in one place, and they only come ashore to nest. Most males will never come out of the water once they enter the ocean as a ha. . .

Nutrition for an Aging Cat

All cats are created equal, right? Wrong. Senior cats have special dietary needs, different from adult cats and kittens. Their bodies require different things.Sometimes, you will have to supplement in order to provide them proper nutrition. Their energy needs may stay the same, but a cat’s ability to absorb fat changes as it ages. A cat in his senior years will need more protein than other . . .

How to Avoid Problems when Boarding your Dog

Most dogs, especially older ones, develop a sense of pattern in their daily lives. Transporting them to new places or doing something that could disrupt those habitual patterns can be upsetting to them.Experts say that old pets are more likely to have health problems. Common to senior pets are deafness, blindness, and arthritis. As dogs get older, they are more prone to kidney, heart, and liver. . .

Crate Training Your Puppy

Crate training has many huge benefits, but the biggest by far is how much easier it makes housebreaking. Crate training works with the puppy’s natural instincts. A dog is, by nature, a den animal. He will feel comforted and safe in his crate, and he will not want to soil where he sleeps. This is your golden ticket to housebreaking. Of course, you may have to convince him that this is his be. . .

Polar Bears, Rulers of the Arctic North

The polar bears (Thalarctos maritimus) live in the Arctic regions of the north near open water where they can find their main source of food which are seals. These bears are huge with adults at 7 to 8 ½ feet tall and up to 1,600 pounds. Polar bears are white to creamy white all year round which gives them excellent camouflage against the Arctic snow when hunting. Along with the Arctic fox, t. . .

Looking For A Good Dog Breeder

If you are interested in getting a dog, you should be interested in dog breeders.The safest place to get a new dog would be from a dog breeder. That gives you a history or insight of the prospective dog you are interested in. You can find dog breeders in the newspaper or online. If you see a great looking dog in public, you could strike up a conversation with the owner and ask where they got th. . .

How to Care For Young Puppies

Raising a puppie into a dog can be a very rewarding experience. It is like seeing a family member grow up, but in fast motion. Of course, I am talking about dogs not people. My wife, Barbara, and I raise Yorkies and Maltese and tend to think of them sometimes as family members. Except, these guys never need to borrow the car keys or stay out too late. This morning, we had a litter of six Yorkie. . .

Euthanasia for Pets: Making the Decision to Say Goodbye

Overwhelming Feelings of Guilt Accompany This DecisionMany of us who have animal companions know that there will probably come a day when we have to make one of the most difficult decisions as a pet owner. Our pets age before our eyes, and we can see the difference in their activity levels and abilities as they grow older. The decision to euthanize our pet can bring on feelings of guilt and pai. . .

Bringing Home A New Puppy

With careful planning, bringing home a puppy to share with your family can be a wonderful experience. However, a new puppy is a lot of hard work.Before you ever bring your new puppy home, you must prepare your home for the new member of the family. To “puppy proof” your home, it is a good idea to get down on the floor where the puppy will be and look around from his eye level. Electrical cord. . .

The Newfoundland: A Hero in History and Most Loved Compan...

When Joe--at the age of seventeen--neared his last days, I ran away from home. I knew I wouldn't be able to take it. Yes, literally I escaped witnessing my favorite pet's death. Probably that's why he still feels alive to me. Joe, a Newfoundland mix, was plucked from the town's pound when he was a six week-old puppy. Although a mix, he had all the traits of the breed, starting with loyalty, gen. . .

How to Clean Cat Urine

Ideas for how to clean cat urine stainsWhen cat urine seeps through carpet, into padding and down to the floor beneath, it can give your home an unpleasant aroma (to say the very least!). In almost all cases, cat urine is the worst perpetrator of pet stains and pet odors. If you own a cat, it's important for you to know how to clean cat urine stains.The color of cat urine and its staining poten. . .

A Puppy for Christmas

So you want to buy the kids a puppy for Christmas. Sounds like a great idea, may even teach the kids responsibility by caring for the puppy.We could put it in a box and put a large bow around it, pop in a few air holes - what a great surprise for the kids, Christmas morning.Wrong! This is a very bad idea. Think about things from the puppy's point of view. It is a living creature with needs. You. . .

It's Time For a Celebration

Did you know that a dog party celebration is a wonderful pick-me-up! When women feel down and need a bit of pampering, we can retreat to our favorite spa and indulge in being thoroughly spoilt. Sometimes we go to the shops and spend money on totally unnecessary things... but it feels good! Maybe, even organise a party for a group of friends, with lots of our favorite food and drink. Our pets, o. . .

Why Cat Urine Smells So Bad and Doesn't Go Away

Cat urine odor is unique among the many smells we know. While there are other smells that are worse, most of us probably don't come across them.Many people wonder why cat urine odor is so hard to get rid of. This article talks a little bit about the composition of cat urine.Cat urine is composed of five different bacteria strains. Two of the bacteria strains are associated with the cat's markin. . .

Facts about Dog Agility and Equipment

Dog agility trials are becoming more and more popular the world over. They began in England, as so many good things, do, but "agility fever" quickly spread all over the globe. Now there are clubs and events everywhere that there are dogs.Some clubs include the Kennel Club (in the U.K.), the United States Dog Agility Association (USDAA), the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the Agility Association. . .

Jake's Own Story

This is Jake's own story, as he sees his world!I can’t remember much about my very young life, but my own story really started at around about 14 weeks, when this very nice couple came to where I was living, looking for a puppy. All I remember is sitting in the corner of the kennel, while four young lady puppies rushed over to say “Hello”. They were very pretty blue merle collie pups and I was . . .

Tips In Naming Your Puppies

So, you finally deiced to get a puppy. You spent so many hours talking to dog breeders and surfed the Internet countless times to have the perfect puppy for you and your family. You went from doghouses to doghouses, to dog associations, to animal societies, looking and meeting puppies until you have found the right one. Question is: Now what? Your puppy needs a name!Throughout his lifetime, you. . .

Choosing The Right Signature Toys For Your Dog

When choosing the right signature toy for your precious dog, you should consider several factors. Even when selecting dog toys that are made by signature and high-end labels, you should weigh in several things aside from price and manufacturers. Here are some tips on choosing the right toys for your dog.On choosing the perfect toys for your dogToys for the dogs should be enjoyable and fun. But,. . .

Essential Care Tips For Your Dog

Dogs are loving pets. But caring for them is a bit of hard work. Here are some tips to consider in taking care of your dog:If you do not have a dog yet, consider the area where your dog can exercise. If you have a big yard where you could exercise or play with your dog, you might want to get a large dog such as a German Shepherd, Labrador, or Golden Retriever. If you have a smaller space, get a. . .

How Inspiring Dog Tales Can Be

There could be no better way of inspiring people than to use some of the inspiring dog tales. In this way, people will realize how dogs are so important in a man’s life and how reliable dogs can be especially if they are well trained.In reality, dogs are marvelous canine mammals because they are endowed with remarkable senses and skills. They can almost do anything especially if they are proper. . .

Dog Training Tips

Considered “man's best friend,” dog training professionals have been disseminating more knowledge on how to make this animal live up to that title.Here are tips that one should keep in mind in training his dog more easily.Digging BehaviorDogs, as social beings, consider digging as their outlet when they are lonely. Nutrient deficiency may also cause this digging. Also known as pica, they someti. . .

Dog Supplies Buying Guide

Just like a baby who needs utmost attention and care, the acquisition of the best supplies for your dog needs some major consideration, too. Here's how you can ensure that your beloved pet gets the best toys, food, and other necessities.Dog Food and TreatsYour dog's needs should be the emphasis when considering what food or treat to buy him. The proper balance of vitamins and minerals should be. . .

Do You Know Your Dog?

Dogs thrive on positive direction and are extremely social animals. Over the years, the breeds have been protected and perfected. The outcome is a breed who have a deep foundation within the respectful human dog relationship. This is why the respected relationship is the most significant factor between pet and pet owner. As such, a good relationship between dog and man is built on trust and hon. . .

Natural Flea Remedies for Dogs

While companies boast the effectiveness of traditional flea control methods for dogs, some reports indicate that they can be toxic, and in some cases cause hot spots, allergies, and compromised immune function. In rarer cases, these methods have been fatal. As a result, more and more owners are looking to find safe and effective alternatives to flea shampoos, powders, collars, and the like. . . .

Dog Clothes: Essential Fashion Items For Your Dog

A dog is a man’s best friend. Yes! The affable chap is your best companion. If you own a dog, you definitely love to shower him with affection. Anything you do for your dog, even a little attention, brings him happiness. And you love him like a baby. Don’t you? You probably spend a lot of money on quality dog food, biscuits and vet bills. But does your dog possess a sufficient variety of clothi. . .

How To Make Your Dog Obey You?

Most people contend that dogs are created to obey their masters. That is why they are considered the man’s best friend. However, obedience is not an innate quality in dogs. That is why it is important to teach them how to obey commands in order for them to know in what manner they should behave.In reality, obedience training is created to impose control over dogs. These canine friends should kn. . .

Making Your Dog Win In Sled Races

So, you decided to train your dog win in sled races. Here are some tips to do it.1. Provide dry and clean bedding.If you want to have a winning dog, provide him first with a clean and complete house. It is your duty and responsibility that your dog must have adequate and clean bedding. 2. Give high quality diet. Give your dog the best diet that you can find. All year round, feed him with the be. . .

When Dog Training Really Matters

Dogs can be very sociable. In fact, they sometimes get too sociable and get aggressive. That is why it is important to train the dogs to control their behavior. Moreover, dog trainings are important to avoid dog biting incidents. Statistics show that 77% of dog biting cases are mostly those that are within the family.Hence, with dog training, bad habits are removed and dogs have better control . . .

“Dog Toys For The Brain, Teeth And Feet”

Thinking of the best toys that suit your dog? Browse through the dog toys below and see what fits your pet and your budget.For dogs who love to chew:1. Kong Jump’n JackPrices:$5.60 (small)$7.50 (medium)$8.80 (large)Kong Jump’n Jack is a dog toy and a teeth cleaner and gum exerciser at the same time. It has a very unpredictable bounce that makes it a lot more fun for the dog to play with. It has. . .

Healing Hounds

Dogs are man's best friend. Always loyal and ever loving, this trait has made canines an integral and common part of what is fast becoming a common mode of therapy in many health care facilities. Not just dogs but animals in general have long been recognized as having a positive effect on the healing process. Dogs, especially, have a calming effect. These dogs help people cope with emotional is. . .

FREE Dog Training Tips: Easy Steps to YOU Leading the Pac...

This article is the third in a 3-part series about changing dog behavior using positive dog training methods.Be a leader, a dog will follow. From the last two articles, remember King and his dominant dog behavior? King was the leader of his pack -- Mom, Dad, 2 kids. King set the rules in the house and didn’t hesitate to enforce them, with growling, snapping, and even biting. I introduced 3 simp. . .

Dog Hats

While Gaston, a seven-year-old pooch was wearing his dog hat striding down the parking lot of the local university with pride, two ladies with astonished voices exclaimed, “Oh my gosh, look at that dog in that hat!” In fact, it wasn’t the first time that he caught the attention and admiration of others.Do you own a dog hat or ever had your dog wear one? Hats are perhaps one of the most popular . . .

Beware Of The Holiday Goodies That Are Not So Great For Y...

The holidays mean plenty of fatty treats for most people. Who can resist …... candy, cookies, fudge, egg nog, pumpkin pie, not to mention the home cooked meals and family togetherness? It’s part of the spirit of the season. While we may not be able to resist the urge to overindulge ourselves, we can and should resist the urge to overindulge our pets. Let’s face it, we all sneak a little tab. . .

Should You Sleep With Your Dog?

There’s a moment of truth for every dog owner. It’s the end of the evening and you’re ready to go to bed. Rover is sitting and looking at you with those big brown eyes, head cocked to the side, cuter than any animal has a right to be. Do you let Bowser sleep with you?There’s no right or wrong answer to this question. The real question is – is letting Fifi sleep in your bed right for you? And t. . .

The Truth About Red Nose Pit Bulls

How do "Red Nose Pit Bulls" differ from other Pit Bulls? Well, besides having a red nose they don't. With the exception of nose color, there is no difference between a red nose pit bull, a blue nose pit bull, or the most common black nose dogs. A rose is a rose, and a pitbull is a pitbull, unless it has been cross-bred with another breed. The red nose dogs come from the same bloodlines as other. . .

Tips on Moving with Pets

If you’re a pet owner and are planning to move to a new home, remember that moving can be even more stressful for your animals than it is for you. But there are several things you can do to make it easier on your dog or cat. Start your packing well ahead of time; it’s not only easier on you, but on your pets as well. During the time leading up to your move, try to keep your pets’ eating and exe. . .

Tips On Choosing The Best Dog House For Your Pet

The Humane Society of America recommends dogs live indoors but sometimes it just isn't possible. Maybe you own a large dog and just don't have enough space in your home for the newest, furriest member. In this case, a dog house is a must. Here are a few tips on finding a dog house to suit your pet. The most obvious factor - geographic locationIf you live in an area with freezing cold winters an. . .

Simple Strategies To Stop Dog Barking

Barking is normal for a dog, and a little bit here and there is ok. However a dog barking all day long can be annoying even to the most patient dog lover.Here are some simple ways to help stop excessive barking:* Exercise your dog often. Tired dogs spend their time sleeping rather than barking.* Give your dog some good chew toys. Chewing is a good stress reliever and is a great way to occu. . .

Another Kind of Horse Brand: Business Branding in Equine ...

It's winter time, the breed inspection season has come and gone in North America, and along with it branding season.Branding season for horses--NOT for horse BUSINESSES.If you have any business or marketing background, or have done any reading on the subject, you have heard of branding in the business context. Let's take a look at what that actually is.Brands on horses and other livestock in th. . .

Going Places With Your Dog

Dogs do like to travel well. Adventurous by nature, they want to check out new sights and sounds. They like to meet and see new people. But this does not mean that traveling with a dog is as easy as traveling with your clutch bag. Here are some tips on how to have a worry-free travel experience with your pet dog.Hiring a pet sitterIf you are traveling far away from home without your pet dog, yo. . .

Dogs Need Good Food Too – Your Guide To Your Dog’s Diet

Dogs’ nutritional needs may differ from ours. What we deem as healthy for us might not sufficient or appropriate for them. To give your dog the best nutrition available you will have to understand their specific needs and how to address them. After all, taking care of man’s best friend does take a little preparation and know-how. Your dog needs the essential nutrients to grow, go, and glow. If . . .

Dog Sports For Every Breed

Engaging in sports is not only for humans. It is also well-loved by our best friend, the dog. Dog sports do not only make a dog's life fun, but healthy, as well. Here is a list of dog sports that you may want your dog to get involved into depending on his breed, of course.AgilityThis is when a dog moves through an obstacle course, i.e., contact obstacles, tunnels, jump, etc., as guided by his o. . .