Posts from — November 2009

As I listen on my long drive to my grandpa’s farm, I begin to hit that little corner that always takes me back in time. I now live in town or the city, but my roots run deep, back in time I go to that little community I once lived in, where I grew up, where I was raised. I then recall a letter that I received from a cousin not long ago. I had asked some questions as to things she remembered from the past, when we were young girls and all that seemed to exist was that farm, in my mind anyways. I thought long and hard about what she had written.

She started by reminding me of all the fun times and memories we had shared. Then she reminded me of a past with hurt but yet things forgotten and let go of. She told me, ‘we grew up in a hard life, at times with things around us that we had no control of and no way to survive at the time, yet only we knew how’. She then told me, ‘I know why you were so close to all those animals. I know why they were so close to you. They were your family, the one you adopted and the ones who adopted you’.

Sometimes I think one of the most greatest gift a person can give to another human being is the gift of self. One of the people or citizens of a community that need to be applauded is that of the adoptive families. Who desperately want what most have and do not even care for, and they reach out and accept those that others were unable to, which I respect, but then there are those who do not want the children they have and this is true. So these loving and patient people await for the gifts from God that were meant for them, but were given through someone else, and they do so with an open and true heart, and can genuinely look past themselves and adopt one from another. I think they deserve so much for their efforts but then again with patience they already have what they sought.

So back to my animals. Living on a farm isn’t easy not if you are an animal lover. It is hard work all the way around and I honestly miss that life, that time. I reflect on mornings spent in gardens that sustained us through every season, we weren’t ones who went to town every day or week, it was once in a lifetime experiences for us and we rarely had that luxury. We lived off the land and we appreciated that and we respected what God and hard work gave us. It was hard work. We did live off the land. We lived by our own hands and sweat. It was the best times of my life and I wouldn’t have traded one day for any of the riches in the lives we now lead.

I guess I am a simple girl, with old traditions, and a little old fashioned. I live in a world of convenience but wish for the old. I look at the lives of others around me who came from the same place, and when we talk it brings each of us back to another time and place where we felt at peace with each other and with the world. It was never a dull moment. People came to visit and would stay for weeks and we were glad for the company, everyone chipped in and the stories are what we longed to hear not the radio or TV. It was the communication between distant families and generations. I miss that. I was the oldest out of the grand kids, except my two step- sisters, but I was the oldest from that line. I was quite a bit older than cousins and my brother, and yes the majority of my time was spent with the animals of the farm. We had cats, dogs, chickens, turkeys, ducks, pigs, a horse at one time, but some of my fondest memories were those spent with my grandpa’s herd of cattle.

This is so funny because one of my friends also grew up on a farm with cattle, and one day we laughed for hours over the many memories we had in regards to farm life. My grandpa would always take me with him out in the pastures and up in the fields and woods, checking on fences, checking on the cattle, especially when they were due to calve. I even told my son just the other night how I was forbidden to go in those fields alone because of the bulls but mainly the herd bull, and anyone who knows farm life will know how dangerous they can be. But I never listened I was always in those fields and I remember sitting at school day-dreaming about what path I needed to take as soon as I got home to find them. As soon as my feet hit that dirt road, I was on my way, running, to get home to drop off my books, grab a sandwich, and head out the door with my grandma yelling, ‘you better not go up in that field again’. And I would be gone on one path to the next, my grandpa owned a lot of property, till I found the herd.

Now what was so great about a bunch of cattle that just stood around and did nothing? For one it wasn’t me just hanging out with cows, it was me watching them , studying them and the family structure they created. I became an excellent tracker not of just cattle but of wildlife and simply animals period. I would track cats to find their kittens, because they are so good at hiding them. I would track the cattle to their calves. Which they would hide as deer will hide their fawns in bushes or shrubs. My grandpa would have approximately 20-30 cattle at a time, sometimes less, sometimes more, depending on the time of year. This was my time spent, Fall, Winter, Spring, Summer.

I lived to be with those cows. They looked at me and seemed to just accept the fact that I was an odd calf or just a crazy person to be over- looked. The bull never bothered me and at times I felt he even looked out for me. As many studies have been done on the family structure of animals, I guess maybe that was my own study. They were very in tune to one another. They were very protective of not just their calves, but of that of the entire herd. They had sitters for their babies usually younger cows who seemed to play and dote on the young ones, the bull was the protector by far, the older cows would sometimes take in orphans or try to take over the young of the other cows, there was a pecking order and it was intact always.

I am not sure where I fit in, but I do know I did, and I was never afraid and I always had fun. It was an unspoken language between us, they trusted me and I needed them. It helped me to escape, it helped me to forget my problems and being a child you need that. I would come home around dark, get my ass whipped, and continue on the next day. It was always the same. One of the worst days for me was when my grandpa decided he could no longer care for them and they were slaughtered and sold, and the days that came to pass were to horrific for me, to this day, to talk about, and I won’t, but just let me say farm life is tough and it was a life learning experience for me and taught me a lot about many things.

One of my favorite places to go was on top of hill where the trees spread out, and it was like a tent or canopy, one tree struck by lightening lay flat in- between two others that were still standing, it was hollow and cut out, I would take a blanket and lay in that tree under the canopy with the cows laying and snoozing not far way, my dogs sitting by the tree watching my every move, and me falling asleep feeling 100 % safe and right in the world.

I hit that corner I take in the smell of the air and the smell of fresh cut hay, I listen to the breeze and the birds and I feel the sun shining on my face through the open window. I turn off the radio and take it all in. I start down that dirt road I walked so many years ago, I round a bend and see the old farm house and look past it to the fields. I miss those days and what they represented to me over and over. I return to years past, the things you learn from cows, the things your learn from nature, and the things you miss when it is gone. Thanks for listening! God Bless You!

Vaughn Pascal

To Dakota: I love you.

To God and Jesus: Thank you!

Do you have an overweight dog who needs to lose weight? Are you looking for advice on how to give your dog a lower fat diet? You are not alone.

Obesity in dogs is probably the most common nutritional problem today in the United Kingdom, and United States of America. Dog food manufactures are well aware of this face, and have produced dog food products to combat obesity in dogs.

You will have seen that reduced calorie products have been on the market for many years. In a similar fashion, so have low carb”, “low fat” and “lite” versions of common dog food brands.

The dog food market has essentially mirrored the marketing for human foods, as more and more people are becoming weight-conscious, and are therefore taking actions to help their pets to lose weight.

But did you know that the consumer safety and food standard rules that apply to the labelling of human food did not apply to pet foods?

In the USA, AAFCO regulations which govern the use of terms such as “lite” became effective recently. Under these rules, the term “lite” must be based on a standard reference for all products, regardless of the manufacturer and brand name.

Here’s an example, a “lite” or “low calorie” dry dog food can’t contain more than 3100 kilocalories per kilogram (kcal per kg), while a similarly named dry cat food cannot contain more than 3250 kcal per kg.

Canned dog foods contain much more moisture, than dry dog foods so the maximum allowable calories are even lower (900 and 950 kcal per kg for dog and cat foods, respectively).

It’s possible that reduced calorie versions of dog food brands that do not comply with the above specifications can make comparative claims on their labelling. An example of this type of diet-conscious labelling would be to make statements such as “25% less calories than our regular product.”

When a manufacturer make such a claim, it must be backed up in the label with evidence.

In addition to “lite” and “low calorie” claims, a similar set of rules were established for “lean” and “low fat” dog food products, which is based on maximum allowable fat percentages instead of calories.

While it’s important to read the labels of your dog food to ensure that you’re not being mislead by false claims, it is also important to consider the overall health of your dog.

You will need to be vigilant that your lower calorie, low fat or lite version of your dog food brand is not stuffed with low fat and low calorie fillers that can cause more serious health complications than obesity.

In addition to this, a successful weight loss program for your dog requires you to get involved and active. Overfeeding your dog on a “diet version of the usual brands will still lead to weight gain.

To bet the best results, you should follow the directions suggested on the label to help your dog to lose weight, and avoid giving your dog snacks in between meals or scraps from the table.

Increasing the amount of exercise you will go a long way in helping your dog to lose weight, and consulting a veterinarian will guarantee that your dog’s weight loss program is as healthy as possible.

Jennifer Subbins writes a newsletter giving nutrition advice for dog owners. For a free subscription to her newsletter, visit her site, dogfooduncovered.com Dog Food Uncovered

Cats are undoubtedly one of the most popular pets and anyone that has one knows that a cat litter box is probably the least attractive thing about your pet.

Cats are known to be finicky about food but the can also where they “do their business”. Thankfully, most cats will use their litter box religiously if it is kept clean and they are introduced to it properly.

Through the years, specialty pet supplies firms have developed the cat litter box. The principal aim of the cat litter box is to provide the cat with convenient and hygienic restroom where it should urinate and excrete stool.

The cat litter box

The cat litter box, for many years already, has been providing great comfort to the cat and to the pet owner alike. For the cat’s part, the simple and cute furniture will eliminate the need to search further for a place to do its elimination rituals.

For the part of the owner, unwanted urine and stool in the most unexpected places of the house will be prevented. Thus, the cat litter box makes up for a good symbiotic relationship between the cat and its owner.

There are numerous types of cat litter boxes sold in the market currently. Through the years, manufacturers have been modifying the type of litter they put into the litter box. The preference of the cat, according to experiences and observations, has been the topmost consideration when one decides what type of litter they put into the cat litter box.

Preventing cat litter box problems

Inevitably, cat litter box problems can not always be avoided. By instinct, cats are very hygienic and will find a safe and discreet place for their bathroom activities. You must probably have observed that even without training, cats dig for a place where they would eliminate, and after they are done, they dig further to cover the urine and the stool. For them, they need to cover their waste for protective reasons so that predators will not be alerted to their whereabouts.

Basically, if you have just bought a cat litter box, all you need to do is to place the bo in an accessible place of the house. Do not put the cat litter box in places where the cat will not like it. Pet owners usually have cat litter problems if their litter boxes are placed in the basement, in the attic, in the garage or in anyplace not easily accessable.

Buying the right and preferred cat litter box will also be necessary. In the past, cat litter boxes with clay litters had become popular but experiences of cat owners indicate that cats do not prefer clay a litter substrates.

Buy cat litter boxes that are containing littering materials that are as fine as sand. This would facilitate for easy digging. Also, make sure the litter is at least two inches deep. Deeper than that, the cat will only have the perception that it is just a trap.

Because the market is almost saturated with different types of cat litter boxes, make sure you invest in one that will surely be of great use. Make sure the furniture is big and tall enough so the cat will be comfortable using it.

There are covered and uncovered cat litter boxes. The cat’s preference will be the basis for choosing between the two. Normally, cats prefer the open space one, but there are also some that are more comfortable in the covered cat litter boxes.

To help avoid potential problems, make sure to clean the cat litter box regularly. It is not imperative to clean the furniture daily, but you could just scoop out the stool and urine every other day. If you do so, you need to change the litter substrate every three weeks.

Take note that if the cat finds the litter box unhygienic, it will opt to do its elimination rituals elsewhere, much to your annoyance.

Bear in mind that like you, cats want their restrooms to be as clean and as comfortable as possible. Buying and maintaining cat litter boxes will be greatly beneficial, and would surely help keep that harmonious relationship between you and your pet.

Lee Dobbins writes for catlitter.topicgiant.com catlitter.topicgiant.com where you can learn more about choosing the right catlitter.topicgiant.com/Articles/Cat_Litter_Box.php cat litter box.

Getting to know your dog starts by getting to know its breed, and that includes getting a better idea about its appearance, personality, and health requirements. Here’s what you need to know about the Shih Tzu:

This particular breed of dog originated from Tibet, although it has now become a highly popular breed in Western countries. The name “Shih Tzu” is pronounced (sheet zoo) and can be spelled a number of ways depending on the country. In fact, in China, the name sounds more like the American “sherbet” with “adds” on the end. Although the Shih Tzu is a tiny dog its name translates to “lion dog” of the Forbidden City, which is for the original resemblance to a lion and not so much size.

When first developed, the Shih Tzu had a very specific purpose in life – to sit or lie around the Emperor of China’s palace, alerting the royal family of approaching people or animals. While the exact breeding to create the Shih Tzu is not 100 percent certain, most people believe it started as a mix of Lhasa Apso, which was already a Tibetan breed, and the Pekingese. What we do know is that of all breeds in the world, the Shih Tzu is one of the oldest.

Physical Appearance

Once you lay your eyes on a Shih Tzu, you cannot help but fall in love. This tiny, furry breed is simply adorable with a long, flowing double coat and undeniable face. Although the hair of the Shih Tzu can be styled or groomed in a variety of ways, most people will keep the long hair brushed to a silky shine and hair pulled back with a barrette out of the dog’s eyes.

Keep in mind that this dog’s hair continues to grow much like that of a human, and it does not shed. Therefore, the dog needs ongoing grooming. Additionally, because this breed has hair and not fur, it is an excellent choice for individuals with allergies, asthma, and other respiratory problems. The Shih Tzu is bred in a number of colors, which include:

* Black
* Gold
* Gray
* Tan
* White
* Combination Colors

The Shih Tzu is a very alert and lively breed with a wonderful personality. For instance, this breed is highly devoted to its family, loves children and other animals, and is comical. The muzzle is short, eyes large, the tail waves up over the back of the dog, and you would notice a small under-bite. For show purposes according to the American Kennel Club, the Shih Tzu should be between 8 and 11 inches tall. As far as weight, the Shih Tzu averages between 9 and 16 pounds.

Temperament and Personality

Although the Shih Tzu is an alert dog, it is also very gentle and calm. Keep in mind that the Shih Tzu can be very playful too, especially while a puppy. Somewhat on the sensitive side, both discipline and training needs to be handled with a soft hand in that the breed can become fearful.

It is important to socialize your new Shih Tzu, helping to build its confidence with people and animals. As a devoted companion dog, you will find that people of all ages and lifestyles can enjoy this breed but it does require appropriate one-on-one time with its master. The Shih Tzu is not just a beautiful breed of dog but also one that brings intelligence, loyalty, laughter, and attentiveness to the home.

Health

While there are many reasons for having a Shih Tzu, the ease of care is definitely at the top of the list. Typically, daily grooming habits are important. For instance, the dog’s eyes can water and tear so they need to be wiped off with a damp cloth or cotton ball several times a day. Additionally, with the long hair, the Shih Tzu needs to be brushed daily. With good grooming, proper diet, and adequate exercise, this breed is hardy.

The only real health risk is due to the short snout. Because of this feature, the Shih Tzu does not handle hot temperatures well. In fact, this particular breed does much better in regions with a milder climate, making breathing easier. Other possible risks, although rare, include liver, heart, and back problems.

Has your dog ever had an ear infection? Likely your vet will have prescribed ear medications for treatment or prevention of future ear infections.

The problem with ear medications is that they can be quite uncomfortable for your dog, the medication often needs to be administered in liquid form directly into the ear canal.

Your dog may find this uncomfortable and start avoiding you, or even becoming aggressive towards you.

If your dog becomes aggressive, consult with your vet and seek help from a competent behavioral trainer knowledgeable in desensitisation and counter-conditioning. Avoid anyone who suggests punishing your dog for this behavior.

If the problem is only mild, then you can begin this simple and effective desensitisation procedure yourself.

Have some small, yummy treats ready. Do this exercise before a meal, not after. The exercise involves forming a positive association with the ear medication and having the ear touched by pairing with yummy treats (for more information, Google “Pavlov”).

The first step is to have your dog used to having his ears handled – without medication. Touch the outside of his ear and give a treat, do this a few times. Then touch the inside of the ear and give a treat. Don’t stick your finger into the ear canal, just touch the actual ear and give a treat. Do this a few times, as many times a day as you can. Gently massage your dogs ears if he likes it, tell him how good he is!

When your dog seems to enjoy having his ears touched, show him the medicine bottle and give a treat. You can do this a number of times.

Next, leave the lid on the medicine bottle and touch the inside of his ear with it, then give a treat. This step is probably the most critical, particularly if your dog has already had ear medication and doesn’t like it.

Now we get to the point where we need to administer some medication. I would suggest you administer just a small amount unless your vet insists upon a full dosage all in one go. Feed treats while you administer the medication, and after. Now tell your dog how proud you are while you gently massage the outside of his ears (if he enjoys having his ears massaged, of course, we are building positive associations!)

Remember to keep it positive, don’t move ahead too fast, and give plenty of treats and praise as you go!

Aidan Bindoff is Editor of PositivePetzine.com PositivePetzine.com, a free ezine for people training their own dogs. Each edition has easy to use training advice based on positive reinforcement methods. Subscribers have access to a large archive of back-issues they can consult for just about any behavior or behavior problem.

I didn’t seem to have much enthusiasm for my life. Divorced for seven years, I still had scars of my abusive ex-husband. Still single, I was very lonely. Life was rather dreary. Then I met her.

Visiting a friend named Stacy, I sat on the bed of her aunt, as she did some chores. I got a glimpse of something in the corner of my eye. It lay unmoving on the floor of the room. I peered closer, not sure what I was looking at. It seemed to have fur and resembled a stuffed animal. Then I noticed there was some movement.

I bent over a bit, to get a better look. Once convinced that it was not rodent, I asked Stacy what I was looking at. She replied that it was her aunt’s dog, a Pomeranian. When replying to my question of how I could not have known there was ever a dog in the house, Stacy told me that the dog was mute. I was stunned to learn that the aunt kept the dog in the bedroom, never allowing it to leave; the dog never had seen the outdoors. This creature had been a “prisoner” in the small room for over five years.

I bent down to pick up this delicate animal, to inspect her. I immediately noticed that she was malnourished; not weighing more than two pounds. Barely moving, her short small breaths scarcely made a sound. She was the color of a baby fox, and despite her matted coat of hair, she was beautiful.

Disgusted at the neglect, I simply said, “I’m taking her home with me”. I cradled the dog in my arms and proceeded to get in my car. Expecting Stacy to follow me outside, to protest my “kidnapping” of the dog; I surprised to leave without a bit of objection.

I was worried the car ride would be too stressful. She cuddled into my lap, almost seeming to cling to me for reassurance. I carried her into my home and came to the full realization that I just made a commitment to care for another living thing. I did not know how to care for a living thing. All I knew was my bed, my work and my television.

I tried to muster the confidence to accept this dog as my own; to be completely responsible for her new life. First things first, I had to give her a proper name. With flair of my silly sarcastic personality, I named her Killer.

I had a lot of road ahead of me. I set her down, onto the soft rug in my living room so as not to startle her. Killer lay down, closed her eyes and curled up; as if it was the only position that she thought possible. The next few weeks would produce stirring results.

Afraid to step on my kitchen’s linoleum floor, Killer’s solution was to make a jump for the carpeting under my kitchen table, and then make another small leap to the placemat that held her food. After a few weeks of slowly summoning up her bravery, I was thrilled when one day she actually did step onto this new environment under her tiny feet. It was our first victory.

There were many more to come. Killer had no notion of what a staircase was and was petrified to climb the stairs to my bedroom. Letting her roam the house freely, I allowed her to decide for herself when she was ready for this venture. One day I found her on the first step, then next day on the third. I would smile and I felt warmth in my heart as this wonderful companion began to experience the world.

She had gained four pounds; which on her tiny frame produced a wonderful effect; she looked so healthy and happy. She became my best friend. There was so much that she learned. We spent hours taking walks outside, exploring neighborhoods. I would bring her with me to run errands; placing her in my pocketbook; as she was still so small that she would stay unnoticed.

The most thrilling moment of Killer’s new life came unexpectedly and the sound was very confusing to me. I heard a bark. Killer was mute; where did the bark come from? It came from Killer! Her former owner, in her own stupidity, was unaware suffering mistreatment made the dog silent. At night, Killer would cuddle up to me on my bed, her soft breathing in my ear, and she filled the empty feeling that I used to have.

To make our lives a bit easier, I connected one end of a leash to the inside of my home, near the front door. After motioning to me that “it was time, I would then connect her to the other end of the leash allowing her to roam the front lawn. She would sit upon the step landing and patiently wait for me to open the door when she was done.

It happened on a Saturday. I allowed Killer to go outside on her leash as normal. Entering my kitchen to pour myself a glass of juice, I heard a knock on my door. I stood in disbelief as my neighbor calmly said, “I’m sorry, my dog just killed your dog”. Apparently, his dog, a mixed breed weighing over thirty pounds, had broken out of the fencing around his home. It had sprinted across the street and in an instant, broke Killer’s neck.

I swiftly took Killer’s body into my arms. The overpowering feeling of grief overtook me. I melted onto the ground and wept. My tears spilled on Killer’s coat of fluff. My neighbor muttered a few more apologies and left. Astounded at his lack of caring and stunned that he owned a dog that was capable of attacking a defenseless animal; I called the police station to report what had happened.

The police officer told me there were no previous complaints and the local law stated that only in the case of a second offense, would there be some type of retribution. Informed that the local dog officer was off duty, I was left on my own to take care of Killer’s body.

I held onto Killer as long as I was able to; wrapping her in a small blanket and sobbing in my state of heartache. With my neighbor perched on his doorstep watching me, I sorrowfully dug Killer’s grave. My motions were trancelike, my eyes barely able to see. When I positioned Killer into her resting place, the pain in my heart seemed to tear at my entire body.

I will never forget Killer; never forget how she came into my life. That little ball of fluff that I found scared and curled up in that prison. It was similar to the prison I used to have for myself, in my room alone each night. Each step Killer took in her new life gave me a boost of confidence. Each moment she snuggled against me, took away a piece of my loneliness. She taught me how to smile, how to appreciate the “small things in life” and most importantly, how to give and take unconditional love. I may have been the one to rescue her first, but Killer saved me in ways that she will never know.

Alisa is webmaster to Pet Pom, a complete informational site devoted one of the most lovable toy dogs, the Pomeranian. Found at petpom.com petpom.com.
Alisa is also webmaster to Love Bulletin, a free and complete women’s online magazine. Updated weekly and daily with reader submissions to change the contect. Guidelines for dating, relationships, breakups and more.

Family: Characidae

Species: Gymnocorymbus ternetzi

Size: 5cm (2 inch)

Diet: Omnivorous

Tank levels: All

Habitat: Among tall plants in rivers in the Mato Grosso area, South America

Remarks: This is an ideal starter fish. A long-finned cultivated variety is shown in the image.

Comments: The Black Window’s oval body is marked by three dark vertical bars; through the eye, just behind the gill-cover, and at the base of the dorsal fin. Sex is generally distinguished by the more pointed dorsal fins and broader fronted anal fins on the males, and by the plumper bodies of females. Even though they have the same name as the very deadly spider called Black Widow, they are of do threat to humans, what-so-ever.

—————————————-

This fish comes from the “Tropical Fish” family species of fish. I hope you enjoyed this fish profile that I put together to help people to choose the right fish for the right aquarium tank setup you may own, or be thinking of buying in the future. If you require more information about keeping fish in general and what are the right fish to choose for your tank setups, you can always visit my site called “GB Aquarium” and see what’s posted new there and also join in the discussion taking place.

garybolton.co.uk garybolton.co.uk

Is your beloved dog suffering with arthritis? There is no
cause for worry as you can get the right medical aid with
natural treatments for your dogs.

First, however, it is essential that you are properly
informed of what arthritis is all about. You must know how
your dog became infected with the disease and how he or she
can recover quickly.

The immediate response of many dog owners that have
discovered that their dog is infected with arthritis is to
go the nearest veterinary. Though this is good, you need to
be aware that there is a better alternative to the problem
of arthritis in your dog. The solution is natural treatment
for dogs with arthritis.

Not many people are informed about natural treatments for
dogs with arthritis. It is not as complicated as many
thought. And also, there is nothing diabolical in it. It is
just an alternative solution to the medical aid we get from
our doctors.

What is arthritis and how does it affect your dog?

The inflammation or swelling in a joint is referred to as
arthritis. The causes include the following:

- Abnormal bone or joint development
- Instability of the surrounding ligaments and tendons
- Damage to joints
- Infection
- Injury caused by immune system

Though there are anti-inflammatory medicines in the market
for the treatment of arthritis, there is a better approach
to its treatment. The approach is a natural treatment for
dogs.

The following are tips that will greatly assist your
ailing dog with arthritis.

- It is essential that you have your dog placed on slip-
free flooring. A slippery floor will not be of help in the
treatment of arthritis in your dog. This is because your
dog needs to have a firm grip on the floor while
recuperating. It is therefore recommended that you have a
rug or carpet in place.

- Swimming has been discovered to be of great help in the
treatment of arthritis in dogs. Swimming is a no-weight
bearing activity that will help your dog recover quickly
from arthritis. It is advisable that the swimming is
monitored so that the dog doesn’t drown in the pool.
Swimming will help exercise all the parts of the body of
your dog.

- It is recommended that you give your dog a soft bed in
the quest for recovery. Your dog needs all the rest he or
she could get on a soft bed that can cushion its ailing
body. Just like a slippery floor is detrimental to your
dog’s recovery, a hard bed is not ideal for him either.

- A peaceful and quiet environment is what your dog with
arthritis needs to recover from the disease. Let your
children be informed of this as your lovely dog may not be
tolerant of their noise and playfulness while recuperating.

- A good massage could also be what your ailing dog needs to get off arthritis. A gentle massage from you might
provide the much needed assurance of your love for the dog.
But if you cannot do it for some reason or other, it is
advisable that you employ a professional animal massage
therapist to do the job for you. The massage will increase
flexibility, blood circulation, and calmness which go a
great length in giving your dog the good health he or she
deserves.

Above all, you must be aware that recovery of dogs with
arthritis takes a while. Hence, it is worthwhile giving
them that extra attention that they need.

Give enough time to your dog as he or she recovers from
arthritis. A natural treatment for dogs with arthritis is
highly recommended when you can’t afford the huge fees
charged by veterinary doctors out there.

For more information please visit five95ebooks.com/Natural_Dog_Care.html five95ebooks.com/Natural_Dog_Care.html and see how you can learn more about caring for your dog naturally. To see our growing list of other $5.95 eBooks, please visit Five95eBooks.com Five95eBooks.com where all products are always, and only, $5.95 or less.

This is a story about a road trip I took with my dog this summer. This is an informational story that will provide some insight as to what you need to consider when you travel with your pet. My dog’s safety while in the car had to be considered. I needed to know where to make pit stops along the way. And I needed to know what hotels would allow her to stay.

Sephi is my dog’s name, short for Persephone. Sephi is a 55 pound dog, part German shepherd, part Labrador, part chow, part border collie, etc. She loves to ride in the car. I don’t generally take her with me in the car during the summer unless it is to the park. But I needed to go to St. Louis for business. As a female, I don’t like to travel alone too far from home. So I decided to take Sephi with me as my “guard dog“. It is a four hour drive from Kansas City to St Louis, and 99% of the trip would be spent on the interstate.

Before leaving, I made sure Sephi’s tags were legible and that they were adequately secured to her collar. Sephi is not the type of dog to run off, but I’d rather not take any chances. Her tags not only have her name and my phone number, but they also have her vet’s phone number. The major dog essentials needed for this trip included Sephi’s leash, her dog car seat belt, water and her water bowl, dog food, doggie bags for picking up her waste, and her pet carrier (which is also her doggie bed). Sephi wore her dog car seat belt the entire time she was in the car. The dog seat belt she uses is easy to put on and comfortable for her to wear. The dog car seat belt is worn like a harness. A strap extends from the back of the harness and latches into the seat belt receptacle. Whenever Sephi is not in the car, the strap can be unhooked and replaced with a leash so that she doesn’t have to have the harness taken on and off.

I brought my own food and snacks or only went to places where I could pick up food quick so that I wouldn’t have to leave Sephi in the car. It was over 90 degrees outside and could get even hotter inside a car. Other pit stops were necessary. Since the drive was mostly on interstate 70 there were several rest stops along the way. These rest stops not only had restroom facilities for me, but they also had designated pet areas for Sephi. Most rest stops in the United States have designated pet areas. Even though it was obvious that many pet owners did not pick up after their pets, I used the doggie bags to pick up after Sephi. Not only did I do this as a courtesy, but I also did it in order to avoid getting into trouble with any law enforcement that may happen to be in the area. The last thing I need when away from home is to get a citation for an ordinance violation. One bad thing about traveling alone with a pet was that when I had to use the restroom, I had no choice but to leave Sephi in the car for a few minutes. There were signs clearly posted at the rest stops prohibiting dogs from entering the buildings so Sephi was not allowed to go into the restroom with me.

Sephi drank water while a the rest tops but she did not eat until we got to our destination. This is because Sephi tends to get a little car sick if she has food in her stomach. Our trip was only four hours long so she did not go hungry for very long. When we reached St Louis we had to find a hotel. Knowing by experience that many hotels allow pets, I did not do any research beforehand. As a result, I visited two other hotels before I found one that both accepted dogs and had wi-fi access. The hotel we stayed at was the Red Roof Inn. It was fairly inexpensive and comfortable. I brought Sephi’s carrier in the room. This gave her the comfort of familiar surroundings, but the carrier was necessary for another reason as well. Most hotels require that if you have to leave your pet alone in the room that the pet be confined. I had business to take care of and I would not be able to take her with me. So she stayed in her carrier while I left the hotel. Hotels have this rule for two major reasons. First, the hotel does not want pets destroying their property. Sephi is not destructive, but some dogs are so the hotel makes the rule apply to all dogs. Second, if hotel personnel needs to enter the room they don’t want the pet to escape or to bite the intruder. Before you travel with your pet, you may want to find a hotel that allows pets first. Be sure to read their pet policy so that you can make sure you comply with the guidelines.

All-in-all, the road trip was a success. I felt safe traveling alone with my “guard dog”. Sephi was safe wearing her dog car seat belt. She was kept hydrated and had plenty of potty breaks at the rest stops. And she was comfortable during her stay at the hotel. Traveling with a pet does not have to be an inconvenience if you remember certain points. Research hotels and hotel pet policies before traveling. Bring the pet’s carrier if you plan on leaving the hotel without your pet. Make sure your dog is wearing their tags and bring their leash. Make sure your dog has a vehicle restraint such as a dog car seat belt or a pet car seat. Bring something to pick up after your pet. Bring plenty of water. And last but not least, enjoy your trip!

Dawn Ross
PetAutoSafety.com PetAutoSafety.com

Do you have a dog for a pet? Are you responsible for the every day maintenance a dog requires? Did you know that your dog gives you unconditional love? Did you know that our pet dogs are a precious package wrapped up in unbounded love? If you have answered yes to any of these questions, read on.

Every child wants a chance to own their own dog during childhood. Their dogs snuggle, cuddle and listen to their every thought. Our pet dogs never complain or talk back. They are the child’s best friend and give their owner unconditional love.

Did you have a dog when you were a child? This is a great way to teach your child responsibility? Your dog needs to be fed, loved, taken for numerous walks and bathed. If you can get your child to take on these numerous responsibilities on a daily basis, you have instilled in your child responsibility.

Your child will take great pride in showing off their prize pet to their family and friends. There self esteem will blossom. This is a gigantic step in childhood to help achieve the responsible adult your child will become.

Not only are family dogs a member of the family in most cases they are treated as a member of the family. They sleep in your house, sometimes on your bed and they are usually within your sight or calling distance at all times.

All your dog wants to do is please and love you.

Thank you for reading my article. Please feel free to read my other numerous articles.

Copyright 2006 Linda E. Meckler

Linda is the author of her first published book, “Ghost Kids Trilogy. ” Christy, 12 and her Brother Brad, 16 moves into an old house on top of a mountain and meet two Ghost Kids. Become involved with all the characters and all the adventure and mystery.

Then we have a mysterious, magical Blue Vase where Uncle Charlie the villain is trapped. He wants out of the Blue Vase and exchange he will tell Christy and Brad where Pirates’ Treasure is Hidden.

Take a walk with Christy and Brad down a dark hall hunting for Pirates” Treasure. You will think were you there right there with them.

Love, Family Values and Charity burst off the pages.

Check out my new 4 E books Titled – How To Appeal Medical Bills – Appeal and Collections Letters for Medical Providers – Boost Your Self Esteem and Blossom – Computers Cause Pain on my website lmeckler.com/store www.lmeckler.com/store

Check out my website lmeckler.com” target=”_new www.lmeckler.com