Welcome to Michael's Article Collection

Know Your Friendly Neighborhood Assistance Dogs

Dogs, aside from being his best friend has also served man in so many useful and varied ways – from shepherding, to cattle rustling, to rescue, and protecting property. It doesn’t come as a surprise that they also are able to assist those who cannot get about by themselves. Assistance dogs are specially trained dogs that serve to complement, assist, and aid those that may have some sort of limi. . .

Tips To Get Your House Ready For a New Puppy

It's Christmas and you have decided to give that special someone a pet puppy as gift. You have done all your homework in selecting the proper breed with the right characteristics and temperament. You have visited numerous breeders and pet shops and have found just the right puppy. You choose an adorable playful healthy puppy that will make the perfect companion. Well, it’s not enough to just br. . .

Behavior Training For Your Stubborn Cat

Learning cat behaviors before you start training them would be an good idea for anyone that is going to train a cat's behavior. A cat can jump and land on its feet as this is a natural instinct for a cat. When a kitten is born the cushion in its paws are not developed with the cushion to land on its feet. It takes about 7 weeks to develop the cushion in a kittens paw for landing. A cats bone st. . .

Choosing a Labradoodle Breeder

“Temperament and Soundness are the two KEY elements in a good family companion; they must not be sacrificed for any reason.” Quoted from the LAA Breed Standards http://www.laa.org.au/breed_standard.htmI want to stress the importance of not choosing a Labradoodle puppy based on price. You want to buy your puppy from a credible and experienced breeder, and that usually comes with a heftier cost. . .

Puppy House Training Do's And Don'ts

House training a puppy is important for the well being of your puppy and for your own sanity. The lack of house training is the number one reason that dogs wind up neglected, abandoned, or in animal shelters, but it's the failure of the owner - not the puppy. It's very important for you to house break your puppy properly. Proper toilet habits need to be established when your puppy is young, sin. . .

Commitment to Training Your Labradoodle

You’re responsible for making the commitment to train your Labradoodle to behave properly at home, when guests are visiting, and away from home. Unless taught, a puppy doesn’t know right from wrong. This can only be accomplished with dedication and repetition, repetition, and more repetition! Dogs don’t fail . . . owners fail their dogs. First, treat your Labradoodle puppy from the day you br. . .

Fish Make The Greatest Pets

Aren’t the children always begging for a pet or another pet?You don’t want a cat – there’s that whole litter box thing. You don’t want to train a puppy, plus what about when you want to go away for the night? Birds make such a mess and can be quite noisy. And then there’s those “rodent” things.When we found out we were expecting our first child we decided to decorate the nursery in tropical . . .

Your Kids Want A Pet - You Don't Want To Pet Anything

“Mom, can we get a puppy?” Who hasn’t heard that line before? The kids think it’s time for an addition to the family, but you know you don’t have time for a family pet.We’ve got the perfect solution to make everyone happy!!Hermit Crabs!!Now before you start to panic because you just heard the word “crab”, just listen! They’re not that bad. Trust me, I’ve had a few and after a while they we. . .

Proper Diet For Your Dog

The dietary regimen is an important aspect of survival. The objective of dietary management is to meet the basic nutritional requirements of the individual with proper proportions of protein, carbohydrates, and fat in a well-balanced diet that will promote optimal body weight.Generally, these dietary regimens are employed to human beings. However, with the growing fondness to dogs, most dog own. . .

The Importance Of Breeds Of Dogs

Dogs are considered as man’s best friend. If one decides to get a dog for a pet, one can choose either a specific breed otherwise known as pure bred or choose one that is if a mixed breed or a mutt. There is a not that much difference between dogs that are pure or mixed. One simply came from parents of the same breed while the other came from a family of two different breeds. Choosing a dog dep. . .

Pugs - Those Sweet Little Puppies who Actually are Dogs

Pug is the tiny dog that's almost like a toy. It got noticedin the 19th century. It is 11inches tall and has a weight ofabout 18 lbs. Its ears and mask are black in color whereasthe color of the coat is apricot fawn or silver. The fur ofpug is shiny, smooth and short. China is the origin of pugs.The East India Company introduced these pugs to Holland andEngland. Because of their compact toy lik. . .

5 Important Things To Consider Before Bringing Home A New...

Did you know that there are over 10 million adoptable animals entering our nation's shelters each year just waiting for a family to call their own? According to the ASPCA approximately 5-9 million of these animals are euthanized in our shelters every year due to overcrowding. Welcoming a new dog into your home and your heart can bring years of happiness for all involved. Before you adopt, pleas. . .

Dolphin Swim Seminars

Dolphins love to be in bliss. they have a wonderful capacity for sweeping peoples' hearts into places of newly experienced joy. I thought I was a person who felt a lot of joy all my life. However, once I experienced being befriended by dolphins, bliss took on a whole new meaning. From my encounters with dolphins I have learned that the deepest joy can fill me from the tip of my toes to the to. . .

The Right Breeder

Dogs are considered as man’s best friend. Deciding to own one whether it is big or small involves a lot of responsibility. It is not just about feeding it but includes other chores such as grooming, watching its health and diet, cleaning up after it and most importantly, giving it some tender loving care. There are many places one can get a dog such as a kennel or the pet store but if one wants. . .

Pets for Christmas

Pets for Christmas PresentsIn general, pets as Christmas presents are a very bad idea. Both for the pet, and for the person receiving the pet. Adopting an animal into the family is very much like having a child. You would not just hand someone a baby for Christmas!Christmas is a time when families get together. There is a lot of joyful chaos and people rushing here and there with many things to. . .

Taking Care Of Your Dog's Teeth And Gums

Clean teeth and gums are very important of the overall health of your dog. Here are some information on the most common dental problems of dogs and ways in treating them. Dog's common dental problems - Periodontitis It is very common among dogs to have gum disease. At the age of two or three, many dogs have either periodontitis or gingivitis. The most common dental problem for canines is period. . .

Vaccination And Its Important Role In A Dog’s Life

Active immunization is the introduction into the body of killed or satisfied microorganisms or their products for the purpose of stimulating the body’s defense mechanism. This concept is also applicable to other species like the dogs. Before, the area of veterinary medicine has not yet realized the potential benefits of vaccinations. Until recently, veterinary experts have formulated certain so. . .

How To Fight Fleas

The natural way: • Vacuum your home frequently and seal vacuum bags before disposing. • Wash the bedding of your dog weekly in warm soapy water. This is where fleas usually breed. • Bathing your pet weekly with a mild dog shampoo prevents flea invasion. • Use cedar shampoo for your dog, and put cedar oil in their sleeping mats. Cedar will repel fleas and other insects. • Fleas are attracted to . . .

When Your Dog Starts To Sneeze

Indeed, there are many things that both the dogs and the dog owners could have in common. For example, both dogs and dog owners could be prone to obesity if not regulating food intake and by not exercising. In addition, dogs and humans may also acquire diseases that results from improper dietary regimen like diabetes, heart diseases, etc. Moreover, the most amusing thing that both dogs and huma. . .

Your Questions On Canine Hip Dysplasia - Answered.

What is canine hip dysplasia?Canine hip dysplasia (CHD) is one of the most frustrating diseases in veterinary medicine today simply because it is so difficult to prevent and treat. CHD is a developmental disease of the bones in which the head of the thigh bone poorly fits the hip socket, causing damage to the cartilage, gradual destruction of the joint, pain and swelling. This disease should no. . .

Overview Of Different Breeds Of Dogs

There are over a hundred registered breed of dogs. Recognizing the type of the dog is basically associated with its breed. A purebred animal belongs to a documented and acknowledged group of unmixed lineage. Before a breed of dog is recognized, it must be proved that mating two adult dogs of the same type would have passed on their exact characteristics, both appearance and behavior, to their o. . .

Need A Little Help With Your Health? Get A Dog!

Dogs are considered man's best friend. But did you know that having a dog gives you several heath benefits?In studies done by medical professionals, dog owners benefit from their pet's presence in several ways:1) Improved cardiovascular health - Dog owners have been proven to have blood pressure and cholesterol lower than ordinary people. These factors reduce the chance for cardiovascular disea. . .

Does Your Pet Dog Suffer From Heartworms?

Dog heartworm is a common disease among canines in the United States. Discovered in 1856, the worms mainly live in your dog's heart and major blood vessels. The worms, especially on worst cases, seriously impair the heart's operations. Worse, they could also clog your dog's blood vessels. These infections result to body weight losses, chronic cough, dropsy, breath shortness, chronic heart failu. . .

Adopting A Dog – Puppy Or Adult?

Everyone is surely going to get excited when trying to adopt a dog. Truly a man’s best friend, you can rely on your pet dog in giving you company, cuddling up together and some can even guard your house. You need to review your personal lifestyle and needs when adopting a dog. It is a major decision whether or not you would choose to have a puppy or an adult as a pet. Before deciding on which d. . .

The Best Ways To Teach Your Puppy The English Language

Puppies are eager and willing to do the right thing. They love your happy face and the squealy noises you make when they have done something great. They will do ANYthing to please you because of the loving rewards they get from being a Good Dog. They just cannot get enough of your praises and cuddles. Moving towards "What a good dog!" from "Bad Puppy!" is based on one thing. Your puppy does not. . .

Dogs During Labor

Breeding dogs is an exciting experience. From the time a proper mate is found to the point that the puppies are born, it is crucial to take careful steps to make this successful.Professional breeders do not breed frequently and will only do so when a pair is found to be healthy that will ensure the birth of healthy offspring. The ideal breeder should have the pair of dogs tested for every possi. . .

How To Make Interesting Can Feeders For Birds

If you love birds, you are likely to have at least one lovely bird feeder outside your window. It is great to sit and watch the birds feed throughout the day. The entire process is one that can be relaxing and enriching. Sometimes stopping tasks long enough to enjoy simple things like birds can really take the stress out of your day and allow you to live a happier life. Birds are a beautiful pa. . .

What People Need To Know About Dog Behavior

As the old adage goes, “Dogs are man’s best friend.” However, there are times when people just couldn’t understand why their beloved dogs behave in a different manner. Hence, it is extremely important to know the underlying reasons why dogs sometimes behave differently. In fact, man could teach his dog the most appropriate behavior. Experts say that dog behaviors can be controlled through prope. . .

Dog Bite: Prevent Or Deal With It

Statistics has it that 4.7 million people get bitten by dogs yearly. These bites range from minor nips to major attacks. Dog is man's best friend, not his worst enemy. To make it stay that way, here are some tips for you to stay away from being bitten by a dog.* How to Avoid being Bitten by A Dog1. Don't Approach a Strange Dog.It is a big no-no to go near just any dog you find adorable, particu. . .

The Naming Game

If “fashionistas” are obsessed with brand names, dog lovers are hooked on dog breeds. This is because purebred dogs are expensive and belong to the high-level of this particular species. Generally, dog breeds were incorporated to give distinctive characteristics to certain classifications, thus, resulting to a substantial number of varieties. However, people who breed dogs often find it hard to. . .

It’s The Worst Possible Time for a Puppy

Your child’s nagging and the incredibly precious holiday commercials have finally broken through your defenses – you’ve decided to relent and get Junior a puppy for Christmas. Don’t do it.Not for Christmas, Hannukah, Kwanzaa or any other occasion. Acquiring a puppy is an event on its own. Don’t even try to cram it in with other celebrations.A wonderful holiday gift for your child is the promise. . .

Easy Steps to Stop Your Dog from Jumping on You

When you bring home that adorable puppy her dog behavior is so cute. She puts her feet up on you to get your attention, jumps in your lap, jumps up and down on her hind legs begging to be picked up. And what do you do? You reinforce all those dog behaviors. Give her attention, pick her up, make sure she’s comfortable on your lap. Then, lo and behold, she grows from 15 pounds to 75 pounds and is. . .

Preventing Your Dog From Catching Diseases

Like any other pet, dogs, if not properly cared and maintained, could get diseases. Here are some parasites that cause dog diseases. - Heartworm. Mosquito bites cause heartworm to exist in a dog and will reside in your pet’s heart and nearby blood vessels. A dog infected by heartworms looks dull and may even have a chronic cough. If possible, ask your veterinarian if your dog could be given a h. . .

Tips For Buying Dog Food

It is not enough for dogs to have a full stomach after every meal. Besides a non-sedentary lifestyle, pets need proper nutrition in order to be healthy, happy and their coats soft and glossy. The cost of dog food and its brand is only important if dogs can read or pay for his meal. The easiest and best way to find out which food is best for man's best friend is to observe how their response is . . .

Training Your German Shepherd Dog

The German Shepherd Dog truly is a wonderful animal and not only do they make good working dogs, they also make superb family pets. They are however very different from other pet breeds and need to be handled and trained with a different approach to say your average labrador or poodle for instance.The German Shepherd Dog is a large, strong athletic dog, which needs a lot of mental stimulation a. . .

The Profile Of A Wannabe Dog Breed

Dog lovers everywhere devote so much time choosing the right dog breeds before they decide to purchase a dog. For them, the dog’s breed is one contributing factor to its value. That is why most families who decide to get some dogs, they know that choosing the right breed is crucial. Today, there are 70 million dogs in the United States but the American Kennel Club only recognizes 143 breeds of . . .

The German Shepherd Dog

Dogs called German Shepherds were first exhibited at shows in Germany towards the end of the nineteenth century but they were hardly Shepherds as we know them today being rough coated, short tailed and rather resembling mongrels. The German Shepherd Dog as we now know it didn't really appear until after the Second World War.The breed has grown enormously in popularity and is now one of the most. . .

Health Problems in the German Shepherd Dog

As with most pedigree breeds, there are certain hereditary conditions that can be a problem in the German Shepherd as well as other health issues that are more prevalent in this breed which need to be considered if you are thinking acquiring a GSD.If you are buying a German Shepherd puppy it is important to ensure that you only purchase a healthy dog from a reputable breeder and a good idea wou. . .

When Your Best Friend Gets Lost: Tips In Finding Your Dog

“The dog is man’s best friend,” So, the saying goes. Dogs have proven to be loving and loyal companions of people. That is almost everyone owns at least a dog. From pitbulls to dachshunds to terriers, dogs are a part of the daily human lives. But what happens when your pet dog gets lost? What if, one day, while you are strolling across a park quite far from your home with your Labrador, your pe. . .

Best Dog Accessories

People need accessories to accentuate the beauty of a certain thing. Though, there are times that they buy accessories in order to protect the product against harmful elements in the environment. All of these concepts go the same way when applied to taking care of dogs. People who are into dogs know how important dog accessories are. In fact, many dog lovers even contend that buying dog accesso. . .

Tips In Choosing The Best Dog Breeders

Dog breeders could be found anywhere. However, buying the best-looking puppy in the pet store does not necessarily guarantee that you bought a pet with a top breed. What are the different types of breeders? Which of them provide the best dog breeds? 1) Look for reputable breeders. Well known breeders know specific details about their specialized breed. They examine genetic diseases that are kno. . .

Enjoyable Activities With Your Dog

A dog is more than just a pet. It is a friend one can always count on when things go wrong and no one seems to care. Having a dog for a pet is not just about feeding it and giving it a good home. It also takes maintenance to keep that dog strong and fit. Spending time with man’s best friend further deepens the relationship one has with a pet. It tells the dog that the owner loves being with it . . .

Tips On Choosing The Best Dog Tracking System

Dogs are man’s best friend, and this is not an understatement. This is because man and dogs find things that they can both enjoy such as playing, wrestling, running, and even hunting. There are people who bring their dogs along whenever they are out for a hunting activity. They do this because they find their dog’s company during hunting a worthwhile inclusion. Moreover, there are dogs that are. . .

Dog Birthday Party Ideas

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 . . .

Weave Poles: Which method should I use for my dog?

Weave Poles can be the most challenging obstacle for you to teach and for your dog to learn. Many agility obstacles resemble natural obstacles that dogs could find out on a hike out in the woods, jumps, frames, and tunnels. Going over, under, or through things and places are natural for dogs,however, weaving the poles is not. How do you teach an unnatural skill........with lots of patience, the. . .

Tire Jump Foundation Training for your Dog

The Tire Jump seems like a relatively easy agility obstacle, at least from a persons perspective, but in the Novice Agility ring you see many dogs that refuse to go through it, many go under it, while others choose to go around it. How can you prepare your beginning agility for success with the Tire Jump?Let's go back to foundation training. When introducing any new obstacle, you want to keep . . .

Fancy Dog Collars, Designer Clothing, Dog Beds - Essentia...

The day you bring a new puppy or dog into your home is a red letter day indeed. It may be an exhausting one for you. It certainly will be for him. This is also one of the most critical moments in your relationship, because first impressions are indelibly marked on the animal mind. It is vital to establish from the beginning an atmosphere of security, affection, and mutual confidence. In short, . . .

Fun Dog Activities

All dog breeds were developed for a purpose. Some breeds were developed to herd sheep, some to hunt game, and some to pull sleds. Dogs, like humans, enjoy having a purpose in life. Dogs like to lead a structured life and be able to associate with their owners in activities and be given the opportunity to please their owner. The following is a short list of fun activities that you may want to co. . .

Your Dogs Health - Your Guide to Accidental Poisoning

There are numerous poisonous substances that can be fatal to dogs and cats, but accidental poisoning can be avoided in most cases if we remember to keep as many of these substances out of reach of our pets. If you suspect that your dog or cat has been poisoned take a moment to try and retrace their movements to detect what type of poison they were exposed to, and then get the animal to the vete. . .

Crufts - The Greatest Dog Show in The World

Crufts – The Worlds Greatest Dog Show? Crufts calls itself The Worlds Greatest Dog Show, so what should you expect if you’ve never been before? Well on the 9 th – 12 th March 2006 it’s the 103 rd Crufts Dog Show, so they must be doing something right! In 2005, Birmingham, England’s 2 nd City saw 21,000 dogs and 120,000 visitors to Crufts across four days and 2006 is set to see similar success. . . .

Want To Find The Perfect Dog For Your Home? Then The Hava...

Unsure which Dog Breed to choose? Well I don’t blame you – there are literally hundreds to choose from! Do you fancy some dogs, only to find out that they just won’t suit your lifestyle! Are you STILL looking? Here is a Tip…… There is one dog breed that you really need to consider. In fact it hasn’t been in the states for very long and already is becoming one of the most sought after little dog. . .

Is Your Dog a Pedigree? - Pedigrees Explained

The enormous popularity of the toy breed dog in recent years has led to a decline in the quality of the breeds. Non-professional breeders and animal dealers have begun the practice of operating “puppy mills” with no regard as to quality or the health of the animal. Only reputable breeders can guarantee that you are receiving a healthy dog with the traits and character of the breed.Most breed do. . .

Why Immunization is so Important for Your Pets

There are six serious, highly contagious canine epidemic diseases that are frequently fatal, but happily all can be prevented by vaccination and prompt Veterinary attention. If your dog is healthy and you give him normal care, including regular immunization shots, chances are you will never have to deal personally with any of these dread diseases. Rabies is an ancient virus disease, transmitted. . .

Dogs Are People Too…Almost!

You know them. They’re the family with fifteen dogs that all the neighbors hate. Their dogs run all over the neighborhood and are largely responsible for the local canine population explosion. When neighbors aren’t at their door complaining about the little reminders left behind by the annoying pets, the animal control people are making a warning stop or pick-up. It’s the terror of irresponsibl. . .

Comparing Goldendoodles and Labradoodles

Goldendoodle and Labradoodle breeder Michael Waggenbach, of Sunshine Acres feels, “For a therapy dog, the Goldendoodle is the better choice. I’m not sure what it is, but they don’t tend to dust all the tabletops when walking into a hospital or an elderly home, where the Labradoodles’ tails are going back forth so fast they dust every thing off.” During an interview with Indiana Doodle Owners G. . .

Introduction to Clownfish

Clown fish are known technically as Anemonefishes. Anemonefishes are a subfamily of damselfish, in the pomacentridae family. There are 26 unique species of 'Clownfish', 25 of them being in the Amphiprion genus and only 1 in the Premnas genus. They are typically a small fish, mature males only growing anywhere from 2 to 5 inches in length.HabitatClownfish are only found in the tropical waters of. . .

Mealtime is the Perfect Time -- for Dog Training, That Is

Eating is one of the most primal activities for dogs. They love it, and they have respect for whoever gives them food (the leader in the pack). You can use your "power" of being pack leader to enhance your dog training efforts -- every day.The following suggestions will help you establish your role as pack leader and reinforce dog obedience, deferment to your leadership, dog training techniques. . .

Try Healhy Homemade Dog Treats

Making your own homemade dog treats can be a healthy way to provide your dog with treats that they will enjoy. When you create your own homemade dog treats, you can ensure that only quality ingredients go into the treats and you can tailor them to your dog’s tastes and needs. Many commercial dog treats are filled with preservatives that are added by the manufacturer to create a longer shelf lif. . .

Ten Commandments Camping With Dogs

In the U.S. alone, more than 30 million people each year take their pets with them while camping. Yet, when we first started RVing with our dogs, we were unable to find much written on the subject. Sure, there were the occasional articles in magazines that reminded us to use pet ID tags, bring plenty of water, and take their favorite toy. But in terms of providing genuine support or bottom–line. . .

Grooming Your Dog the Right Way

Good grooming habits should start in the early stages of your puppies’ life. At this age they can be trained to sit or stand, and the grooming becomes a part of their normal routine. All dogs need regular grooming and inspection, whether done by the owner, veterinarian, or groomer.A basic home grooming kit should include a flexible pin brush, a fine and coarse tooth comb, and a knobby glove. A . . .