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2012年10月31日 星期三

Different My Pillow Pets Hippo Options to Choose From


It was clear that the My Pillow Pets were going to be successful this year in the major toy popularity lists, because of their great marketing, their fantastic look, and their uniqueness. These qualities have lead to them being very popular, and items like the My Pillow Pets Hippo have become very popular gift ideas because of it. Luckily for consumers there are a lot of different choices when you are picking the hippo option, which is not something you always get with all of the different options from this company.

The most popular option for almost of these items would be the large stuffed animal version. In this case, you can purchase the My Pillow Pets Hippo 18" animal. This is the largest hippo they make, and is popular because kids love having those big and cuddly stuffed animals. The smaller version of this item is called the My Pillow Pets Hippo 11" pet and it is going to be almost identical to this bigger version. The only difference you are going to see is that the sizes and costs are different. Some smaller children like the littler one better, just because it is easier for them to carry around and play with. Some parents like the smaller version because it does cost a little less.

Both of those stuffed animal options are very fun, and very popular, but if you know someone who already has the pet or if you are looking for something a little different, there are a couple of other great hippo products. The first would be the My Pillow Pets Hippo blanket, which matches perfectly with the pillow. This item is very large, keeps the hippo design, and is very warm and soft. The second unique and really fun item is the My Pillow Pets backpack. Children who are going to preschool love this item, and children who travel a lot love to use it as a way to take their clothes and toys with them. This item also captures the look and feel of the hippo that the other products have also captured.

The My Pillow Pets Hippo products are all going to be made from a soft plush material, and have a great pink color to them. They have become a great option for people who are looking for the perfect Christmas or birthday gift. Stuffed animals have always been a classic toy gift, so it was nice to see a company keep those traditional stuffed animal qualities we all love, but also give it a modern twist that children are sure to enjoy.




And for more information about My Pillow Pets Hungry Hippo, please visit the link provided. Additional information about other kinds of pets including about Sir Horse, can be found by clicking on the following link: My Pillow Pets Horse.




What Are Pillow Pets?


If you're looking for a great new gift that your a child will absolutely fall in love with this holiday season, then one gift that you should definitely consider is one of the many products from the Pillow Pets line. When you purchase one for your child, you won't simply be giving them a toy, you will be giving them a life long companion.

If you are wondering what exactly are pillow pets, then wonder no more. Yes, these adorable little characters are stuffed animals that you can play with, but they are a lot more than that. They can also be turned into a soft and very comfortable pillow that your child can enjoy sleeping on at night. The stuffed animal is held together with Velcro so all you have to do is pull the Velcro apart and it quickly folds out into a pillow. The one great thing about this stuffed animal is that you will never have to tell your child to pick it up and put it away before bed because they will already have that covered! They'll want to sleep on it so of course they'll already have it picked up.

One of the reasons why Pillow Pets are so popular is because they are so soft and cuddly. This is because they are made with a material that is natural soft to the touch. That material is chenille plush, and it is a very popular material that is used in a number of products such as clothing, bedding, and much more.

This isn't just another toy that children can put in their toy box at the end of the night. They are a true companion to many children for the simple fact that kids love to bring them wherever they go including and family trips in the car, airplane, or simply across town to a friends house for a sleeper. Other stuffed animals and toys get tossed in the closet at night or in the toy box, while Pillow Pets stay with the children through the night, much like a guard dog watching over the heard.

There are other products within the Pillow Pets line including backpacks, slippers, neck pillows, books, blankets, and even hats. Backpacks are a favorite for many children for the simple fact that the children can now bring their favorite companion with them to school and no longer have to leave them at home.




You can purchase Pillow Pets in a number of different places. First of all, you can visit the official website and purchase any one of the products there. You can also find them being sold in a number of major department stores, shopping mall kiosks, and certain specialty stores.

Check out our Pillow Pets Store for more deals and reviews on pillow pets. Don't miss our guide on finding authentic pillow pets as well to make sure you are buying the real thing!




Pet Safety Around The Pool


Pool owners who do not have children to worry about around the pool may have pets that they want to keep away from the dangers of their swimming pool. The family swimming pool can be a very real danger to pets that either do not know how to swim well or pets that slip and fall into the pool. Just like children, pets should be supervised at all times when they are around the swimming pool to prevent accidents.

Many dogs enjoy swimming, however, they should only be allowed in the pool when they are supervised. You don't want your dog jumping in the pool every time they are let outside. Not only does this pose the possibility that they could drown, but would create quite a mess as well. During the winter months the pool will be very cold and it would not be good for your pet to decide to take a swim. Some dogs do not swim well and could fall into the pool and drown. Elderly dogs may not see as well as they used to and could easily misjudge and fall into the pool. All of these are good reasons for installing a pet guard pool fence around your pool to prevent an accidental drowning of your pet.

Should you have to drain your pool for any reason, a dog that is used to swimming whenever they please may not realize that the pool does not have any water in it and could jump in seriously injuring themselves. Imagine the damage that could be caused if a dog jumped in a pool and landed on the concrete in an 8 foot deep end. If the dog survived the jump, they would almost certainly have a broken bone or two.

Some dogs drink the pool water. This is not a good idea as there are many chemicals in the pool that may cause your pet to get sick. The only way to prevent your dog from drinking the water is to create a barrier between your pet and the pool.

A pet guard pool fence is manufactured with the same high quality materials as a child pool safety fence and installed in the same manner. It is just a shorter height than the child safety fence, however, it is too high for most dogs to jump over. The holes in the mesh are also very small and would prevent your pet from climbing over the fence. Obviously, if there is any concern about children getting into your pool unsupervised you should install a pool safety fence which will protect both children and pets. The pet guard pool fence can also be installed with a self latching gate which allows for easy access to the pool area by adults.

Keeping your pet safe around your swimming pool should be a priority. Pet drownings occur much more often then most people would think. This is quite easy to do with a pet guard pool fence which is professionally manufactured and installed to match your current pool deck area.




For more information about pet safety fences or pool safety fences, please visit our website.




2012年10月30日 星期二

Basic Information About My Pillow Pets Puffy Duck


There are a lot of people who are currently enjoying My Pillow Pets, especially the My Pillow Pets Puffy Duck. It kind of surprised me to see just how successful these items have become, because they do work on a pretty simple principal. They are both a stuffed animal and a pillow, making them have a dual purpose. Kids love them because they are a fantastic stuffed animal when the Velcro on the bottom of them is together. As soon as that Velcro is pulled apart, the stuffed animal instantly flops to the ground and becomes a very comfortable pillow. This simple concept has catapulted this item into the major lists of popular toys.

Cost and durability are very important when picking any stuffed animal, and most people are very happy with both when deciding to purchase this product. There is an 18 inch version and an 11 inch version of Puffy Duck, so the cost is going to vary depending on which one you buy, but even the most expensive ones normally cost around $27.00 or so. This is a very reasonable price for such a soft, comfortable, durable, and popular item. It is tough to find any great toy at this price.

As for the look of the My Pillow Pets Duck, you are going to be pleasantly surprised. It has a very bright two tone color system which is a yellow body with an orange beak. Both colors are very bright and look fantastic, especially with the small black eyes, and smiling face. It has four legs, and just about all the qualities you are going to want from a stuffed animal, including ducks.

These items are becoming a very poplar gift choice. Children love the great color schemes and the dual purposes these toys serve as both stuffed animals and pillows. Parents love the very reasonable price and the durability of these toys. They really do become the perfect gift for children ages three and up. As for children who do not like ducks, there are a number of great options available in other animals. For example, you can even find a My Pillow Pets Elephant toy, among a number of different animals to choose from. This makes it very easy for you or other relatives to find the perfect animal that children love, and matching that with the perfect stuffed animal. Once you do that, everyone should be really happy with the gift choices made.




And for more information about My Pillow Pets Duck, please visit the link provided. Additional information about all of the great My Pillow Pets options can be found by clicking on the following link: My Pillow Pets Elephant.




Pet Proof Your Home Before Bringing Home Your New Pet


Are you a proud new pet parent? Before you bring that precious pet home, you should be a responsible pet parent and pet proof your home. This will not only keep your new furry friend protected but it will also save you time and work in the weeks and months to come.

I'm always saddened to hear about a new pet being returned because the new owner couldn't handle them for some reason. I think one of the reasons that pets are often returned relates directly to their lack of preparedness. Not unlike bringing a new baby home from the hospital, bringing a new pet home also requires household changes and adjustments so that both you and your furry friend can start off on the right paw.

Where Do You Keep The Chemicals & Toxic Foods

One of the first things to address is the where you store your chemicals such as cleaners. Just like children, animals are curious and often get into mischief. Remove these items from underneath your bathroom and kitchen sinks and put them into a cabinet with a child-proof or pet proof lock. It's always a good idea to switch to all natural or green products that are not only good for the environment but not harmful to your children or your pets.

Don't Forget To Stock Up

Before bringing home your new pet, you need to think ahead and plan for potty accidents. Because I promise you there will be accidents for a while until you get them completely house trained. It's also likely they may vomit some until they adjust to their new diet and environment.

You will definitely want to get a pet stain and odor remover that is an enzyme cleaner because this type of cleaner actually eliminates the urine odor, where other cleaners just cover it up. It also will help keep your dog from peeing over and over in the same area.

Now if you are a gagger or have a really weak stomach, no worries. There are handy little carpet cleaners made just for pet messes. These little pet carpet cleaner machines can even just be left sit on the spot and they do all of the work for you like the Spotbot Pet Compact Deep Cleaner! How much easier could it be that to just sit it on the spot and it does all the dirty work. If I were bringing a new puppy home, it's seriously a purchase I would make.

What To Look For & Where

So you're ready to pet proof but where should you begin? Try getting down on your pets level. Seriously, get down on the floor and start looking around. You'll get a whole new perspective from their angle. You'll see thing people have dropped such as money, medications, candy, food wrappers, children's toys, cords etc. all potential hazards for your pet. Also look for spaces that need to be closed off so that a small pet can't crawl in and get lost or stuck.

Potty Training

Potty training can be a trying time in pet parenting but it's important that you maintain your patience and your temper. You need to expect accidents and often repeated accidents. Never react by screaming at the animal or striking the animal. This only serves to tell your new pet that they are not supposed to potty in front of you. So the next time, they will potty in private, say behind the couch or in your bedroom.

Instead, change the tone of your voice and firmly say "NO!" Then pick them up and take them outside to the area you want them to use to potty. Use the same place so they start associating that area with using the bathroom. If they do seem to understand why you are taking them to the same place each time, then pick up some of their potty and poop mess with gloves and paper towels and take it out to the bathroom spot and leave it there. Make sure that your dog sniffs this but do not rub their nose in it. This will help the dog better understand that this is their potty spot. Remember to praise them and even reward them with a small treat for having a successful outdoor potty.

Don't Forget The Toys

Dogs are natural chewers and rely on chewing to relieve anxiety and as a form of relaxation and play. It's really important to always choose quality toys and chew bones and give your dog the chance to chew everyday. By keeping toys and chew bones available, you are giving them an alternative to chewing on your furniture or shoes.

Keep Shedding Tools On Hands-free

There are multiple ways to clean up the hair your dog sheds but there a couple of things I think work better than others. First of all, keep your dog brushed regularly. This will help more than anything. Vacuum more often, like you had to do when your kids were little. This helps keep up with the shedding and doesn't allow it to get out of hand. The other item that I absolutely love is the new Pledge Fabric Sweeper which picks up hair off of your couch and fabric. Just rub it side to side and it picks up the hair and stores it in a chamber for disposal. Super easy! They say it's comparable to 145 of those sticky sheets. I think it's amazing little gadget and I love watching the hair ball collect in the chamber - lol!

No Toilets Allowed

Always keep your toilet lid shut and/or your bathroom door closed. The chemicals you use to clean your toilet will make your pet sick and will poison them over time. Pets love to drink out of the toilet because the water is fresh and cool, so keep those lids shut!

Start Training From Day One

Too many pet parents go into pet ownership without recognizing the need to train their new pet. There is nothing more important that the need to teach their pet commands and how to obey when they bring them home. Not only does this teach manners but it is a safety issue. Poorly trained animals are often the reason pets are returned or taken to shelters. So do your research or hire a trainer and learn with your dog. It will make your dog and you much happier.

The most important thing when you pet proof your home is to do it before you bring your furry friend home. Beyond that, just enjoy your new pet and love them loads!




A few months ago I left the business world to pursue my passion of working with animals while trying to improve my health. To do this, I am using my 20+ years experience as a dog breeder and pet owner. I also worked for a well known veterinarian and national vet supply company for several years. I have a B.S. In Agriculture with an emphasis in Animal Science and Ag Business and I worked in the Agriculture Business Industry for over twenty years. So if you are interested in the details of how the right dog food, dog care and just good old fashioned love and affection can help your dog live a healthier and longer life, please join us at:

To check out the SpotBot Pet Compact Deep Cleaner and Pledge Fabric Sweeper: SpotBot [http://www.love-your-dog-food.com/pet-proof.html# Spot-Bot]

Need Help Choosing Your Dog Food: [http://www.love-your-dog-food.com/best-quality-dog-foods.html]




2012年10月29日 星期一

Pet Grief - How to Cope With Losing a Pet


Grief is a very unique issue. It will come and go, be absent for a month, back again the next week, long gone for one year and then become almost unbearable for a few days. Grief for a pet is real, since the relationship among master and pet is certainly an incredible thing.

Grieving means to show your own feelings, regardless how painful and it is what you do right after this loss, so that you can assimilate it as well as prepare yourself in order to carry on with living.

Grief upon losing a pet is actually a normal reaction, and a very individual one. For some people, grieving for a pet that has died could possibly be an even more difficult process than grieving for a human loved one. This type of loss may cause an individual to act irrationally and it's a must that you give yourself time to reflect on a situation prior to making the decision that you might regret.

Whenever coping with a pet's death, you have to accept all the deep sadness and profound feeling off loss that you feel. Comments like "It was just a dog", or "You'll always find another one, or "Be happy you don't have to look after him anymore" are not constructive. Instead they hurt as well as make the family's journey through grief more and more difficult.

Grief over pet death is certainly a very natural thing for you and your entire family, especially the younger children. Any little one old enough to love will be old enough to grieve. Children must be told the truth, always.

Life is not going to nicely wait for just the "correct" time to let you deal with something. For most children, pets will be more than simply animals they really are family. Your young ones might let you know in the next few weeks, and even months, that they're still heartbroken within the death of a family pet.

Kids cope with these things far better than many of us give them credit for, when we tell them the truth. The dog was ill, he died, we loved him or her a great deal and you should always remember him or her, and so on.

Here is a list of some of the traditional methods we lay many of our dogs to their finalized resting place:

Pet Cemetery

These are generally burial grounds which are usually located in a quiet, park-like place. A few of them have a special place in which the remains for the owners may be buried together with their own pets.

There are two questions that you should ask before deciding on the pet cemetery:


Is the actual proprietor of the actual property devoted to keeping the actual property for a pet cemetery in the future? To find out,you need make contact with the county records clerk and verify the property is indeed dedicated as a pet cemetery. Or else, the company could legally exhume your dog and sell off the property.
Will this cemetery charge a maintenance charge? It's to make sure proper keeping of the burial grounds.

Cremation

Three Types Of Pet Cremations That Can Be Found:


Personal Cremation: Only one pet is cremated plus the ashes is usually go back to your family.
Private Cremation: Several pets are cremated yet held in separate chambers so that the ashes will be returned to the right family.
Common Cremation: Includes numerous pets and the ashes are not returned.

A respectable crematory need to offer you a tour of their facility as well as permit you to be there throughout your dog's cremation. Ashes which are returned to the owners can be laid to rest, spread in a very special location, or put into an urn.

Body Disposal

Your vet will probably dispose of a dog's entire body for a minimal charge. The bodies are often incinerated or perhaps delivered to the landfill. If your dog is to be cremated, request the name and telephone number of the crematorium and call to verify the facility works together with your veterinarian.

Outdoor Property Burial:

Find out the local county's restrictions concerning backyard burials for your pets. Consider this question: If you believe you are going to be moving within a few years, will it trouble you to leave behind the dog's remains?

Grieving the passing of your family pet can take quite a long time. Possibly viewing the pet following death, or even just being told the pet is dead, may offer the particular closure they want, too.

Sudden death of your pet is a very distressful period for people filled with the pain associated with letting go.

Memorials

Many people memorialize their pets in various ways such as granite headstones, wooden plaques, etched glass portraits or simply by placing a picture and comment on a website. These acts of creating memorials not only help to cope with the loss but they also keep the memories alive.

At the bottom of this article there is a website where you place a picture of your pet and a few words to show others just how much you loved and miss your pet. What's great is it's FREE service.

"All of a sudden he begins to run away from the pack, soaring across the wide open field, legs propelling him above and beyond the bounds of this earth."




The author is lifelong pet owner, trainer and breeder and has produced numerous articles on pet health care, dog training techniques and general pet care. If your interested in more pet health care, simply visit http://www.dogailmentsonline.com, a website designed for the health care of pets.

Immortallize your pet by placing a picture and comment on the Pet Memorial Page.




Different My Pillow Pets Giraffe Options


Stuffed animals make great gifts for young children, especially during Christmas, their birthday, and on special occasions. One stuffed animal brand that is becoming extremely popular for younger children is My Pillow Pets. One of their most unique options would be the My Pillow Pets Giraffe stuffed animal. This unique stuffed animal and pillow has becoming extremely popular for a number of reasons, and kids have loved receiving them for a long time now. There is a very limited amount of My Pillow Pets Giraffe options available, so without further delay, here is a list of what is currently available.

The only option you are going to get is the My Pillow Pets Giraffe 18" pet. Most of the items this company offers come in two sizes, one eleven inches and the other eighteen inches. That is not the case with this specific item, you only get the one. However, the bigger versions of these toys are normally the most popular, in large part because kids love large stuffed animals that they can cuddle with and hug. You should have no problem with your kids liking this item, and just remember that giraffes are a very tall and very awesome animal. It is only appropriate that they would make this item in the tallest size possible.

If you are worried because you do not think your kid is going to like a stuffed giraffe, but you like the concept behind My Pillow Pets, do not worry. That is because there are a number of great choices to choose from, with many different animal options, including things like My Pillow Pets Friendly Frog. With all of the different options to choose from when it comes to other pets, it can easily make up for the lack of options you get with the giraffe. And if your child loves the giraffe and desperately wants one, you still have the ability to make sure they get one.

The Jolly Giraffe is a great option for a gift. It is durable, looks great, and kids love it. It is recommended for children ages three and up, and parents love it because it is machine washable and very durable. When you add that to the fact giraffes are just a neat animal, you can see why so many kids want one of these stuffed animals, and why they have become such a popular toy. If you are looking for a gift that is going to be unique, but also something that children are really going to like, this is one great option to choose from.




And for more information about My Pillow Pets Jolly Giraffe, please visit the link provided. Additional information about all of the fantastic my pillow pets can be found by clicking on the following link: My Pillow Pets Frog.




2012年10月28日 星期日

Lizard Facts: Lizards and Children


So your child has come to you wanting to get a lizard for a pet, but you don't know anything about them. Hopefully I can get some lizard facts straight for you. Keep in mind two things when deciding which lizard is best for your family:

Temperament - a child is going to want to take the lizard out of the tank and play with it. He/she isn't going to be able to sit and watch it in it's tank all of the time. For this reason you need a lizard that is docile, and not skittish. Bearded dragons are a very popular choice for kids because they're rather calm, and they can handle being out of their tank for short periods of time. Your child must be taught to treat the animal with respect because a bearded dragon will defend itself if it feels it is in danger.

-Size - if you don't have the room for a large lizard like a bearded dragon, than an anole might be a better option. Anoles are small and hardy, and don't require large enclosures. The main concern is that they're so small, kids can easily hurt them, and if one gets away from a child outside of its tank, it's really hard to find. Your child will have to understand that the anole must stay in its tank (like a pet fish), or else it can get lost - and if you live in a colder climate this means death to your little pet.

Next I'll go through the most popular lizards children want and rate their child-friendliness:

Green Iguana - Many kids want one of these lizards. They're one of the most well-known and recognized lizards, but they also happen to be one of the most difficult to properly raise. They're herbivores, and thus seem like they'd be easier to feed and easier to take care of right? Your child can simply throw some lettuce in the cage and it's fine, right? Wrong. An iguana is not the choice for a child. I can't stress this enough. Their diet is very complicated, you need to know about vegetarian nutrition to properly feed them. There have been countless tragedies in wich young iguanas have either died or become deathly ill due to poor nutrition.

Iguanas are also temperamental when they're not handled on a regular basis, and they grow to be huge so you have to make sure you're always in control of the animal, and know it's warning signs when it has had enough of you. A tail whip to a child is not something you want to deal with. They're small and cute in the pet store, but remember that these guys grow up to 6 feet long (sometimes even longer). They also need an environment big enough to give them lots of space. The myth that keeping a reptile in a small tank stops it from growing large is completely wrong and will lead to either the death of the animal or to a pathetic painful existence. We're talking about giving up one of your bedrooms to turn it into a proper home for your iguana. Not ready to do this? Then move on to the next lizard.

Chameleon - Chameleons are cool. There isn't much else to say, but they're also quite difficult to keep. They need special requirements and can get very sick if they're not properly cared for. Leave this to the more experienced reptile owners.

Bearded dragon - the most popular lizard kept as a pet, and for good reason. This is the best choice for a child.

Anole - See above. Good for space, but children must see it as more of a "fish" and not a pet they can really interact with.

Final recommendations

Lizards by nature and not very child friendly. They can scare easily, and are usually big enough to hurt a child if they choose to defend themselves. The best choice for a young owner is the bearded dragon for the above reasons. It's really the only species of lizard that I can recommend. Keep in mind however that the key to lizard ownership is knowledge. If this is your child's first pet, something easier to care for is a better option. A little beta fish in a 5 gallon aquarium is probably as exotic as you want to go with a first-time pet owner. Lizards are more of an adult pet.

If your child wants a lizard, make sure both you and your child do your research. These are exotic animals and have care requirements that are very different from a cat or dog. If you see your child is not properly caring for the animal then it is your responsibility to do so. Do not acquire the lizard if you are not 100% sure you and your child can care for it. Lizards can live for 15-20-even more years, so make sure you do your research before diving into this long-term relationship!

I know I sound harsh in this article, but I'm thinking about what's best for the reptile here. Lizards are living creatures who deserve our respect, and if we decide to bring one into our homes then we need to make sure we can care for it properly. A lizard is an amazing pet - as long as we do our research and know what we're getting into! I hope this article was helpful in debunking some myths about lizards and their appropriateness for children. Good luck in your future reptile adventures!




Ashley is a lizard owner for over five years and is passionate about spreading accurate and helpful lizard facts to beginner lizard owners. She is on a mission to debunk the myths about reptiles and to show the world how great they are as pets.

http://www.lizardfacts.net




Pet Photography Secrets


You can dramatically improve the quality of your pet pictures following any number of the tips below. Of course, you should try to incorporate all the elements whenever possible. To get 8 pet photography secrets, just keep reading...

1. Consider the context and environment. Your pet should be happy and comfortable if at all possible. Familiarity is a good thing and will improve your chances of a great photo. Be aware of the background, including colors and textures. Also, consider distractions, such as strong smells, other animals, and so forth. In summary, be aware of your surroundings and how your pet might react.

2. Be aware of your pet's personality. Think about the unique elements or features of your pet, such as eyes, hair, size and so forth. Also, consider your pet's personality. What makes your pet special? I'm sure you have plenty of good ideas; capitalize on them. Set the stage and be prepared for capturing awesome shots.

3. Select the right height. You'll want to be on the same level of your pet. If you're not careful, you'll get too many "down" shots since most humans are taller than their pets. You'll get more interesting shots, including lighting and colors and shadows, if you lower yourself. This is a similar tip to photographing children. It works.

4. Move in closer to your pet. Dogs and cats are smaller than humans. If you're not careful, your pet will end up being a small part of the picture. Experiment with close up shots. You'll be able to get some great shots of textures this way. You'll also be able to focus on unique animal elements, like fur and paws. If you don't have a zoom lens, think about getting one. This is one the great pet photography secrets.

5. Experiment with lighting. This is really important because good lighting can make a photograph excellent but poor lighting can ruin an otherwise nice photo. Use natural lighting as much as possible. It is usually best to avoid flash photography since it spooks many pets. Plus, animals are prone to red eye.

6. Consider action and playtime shots. If someone else can take the pictures, one of the best pet photography secrets is to play with your pet and capture the moment. Include key elements, such as dog bones or cat toys since they are natural. Have an enjoyable time and your pet will produce some excellent shots for you.

7. Get humans in the photograph. On the topic of context and environment, remember that people and pets go hand in hand. While isolated shots can be nice, you can add real excitement and interest by getting people involved. Children and pets are a wonderful combination. Small children with big animals or big men with small toy dogs or kittens will make anyone smile.

8. Experiment with both posed shots and random shots. While posed shots are nice to have, you should also try catching your pet in candid situations. Catch them when they don't expect it. Catch them sleeping or when they are playing. If you try too hard and focus too much getting the perfect shot, you won't have fun. One of the most important pet photography secrets is to have fun!




John S. Rhodes publishes the Pet Comfort Newsletter, a FREE weekly publication packed with tips, advice, discounts, and bonuses for pet owners. Subscribe today and instantly download a FREE copy of Insider Dog Training Secrets ($17 value): http://www.pet-comfort-products.com/free-pet-comfort-newsletter.html




How Great Are Small Dogs For Pets?


It is important to acknowledge from the beginning that small dogs make wonderful pets. You are therefore not making a mistake by deciding to have them for pets. They are very loving and make excellent companions.

If you choose small dogs for pets, you are required to do some things if only to contribute towards making your dog happy. They are typically very playful. This means that you have to find some time to play with your pet. Apart from providing a bonding opportunity, it also helps make your dog very happy. In addition, you should provide toys for him to play with.

Small dogs for pets are always at hand to provide you with the kind of warmth you would expect to receive from any kinds of pet. Many of them will hug and kiss you every time that you get home. A large number of them will always be by your side while many others will enjoy curdling with you in your bed. This is the kind of warmth you would expect from any pet that you keep.

If you have small dogs for pets, always remember that most of them are great around children. Indeed, most of them enjoy being in the company of your children. However, you must train your children to treat your dogs with respect because if they tease them, your dog may hurt them in the process of defending themselves. Most importantly though, is the fact that you should not leave your children and your pets together unsupervised.

Finally, remember that small dogs for pets need a lot of caring and attention from you and your family. You cannot ignore them or leave them alone for long periods of time. There is no doubt that having small dogs for pets are wonderful. If you own one already, you have clearly made the right decision.




Lee is a small dog enthusiast. He owns and maintains Small Dog Center Answers [http://www.smalldogcenter.com]. To learn more about Small Dogs, how to look after them and how to be a great owner, check out this great website [http://www.smalldogcenter.com]




Beloved Pet's Passing


Working with young children, I often hear of the passing of their beloved pets. I often have them draw their furry family member while telling me about their pet. I try to listen as deeply as possible, guiding them to the feelings that may lie under their words. When I hear an often repeated and cheery, "It's ok, we're going to get a new one," I breathe deeply and allow a few moments before I respond.

As parents, we want to protect our children from pain. But, death is an ongoing part of life. There's no way around it. Those we love die. And for some young children their animal's passing may be the first experience they have with death. This is a very rich time to be with children and answer the questions they bring up.

"What do you think death is like?" "What do you think happens when someone dies?" Children's responses are as varied and fascinating as the children themselves.

"It's when you never ever never come back." "Sometimes you can come back but then you have to leave again." "It doesn't hurt." "My grandmother died." "My turtle died." "Our chicken died when it fell off my lap."

I facilitate by saying as little as possible to affirm or contradict the many variations children have on what death is. But, I must admit to being biased when a child repeats that it doesn't matter because the pet will be replaced. While it is true that this may happen, to have them think that we can move through loss without grieving in some fashion, even briefly, is a disservice.

I remember when the school chicken died. As the child stated, it did just fall off her lap and cease to be. We made sure that she didn't blame herself and then proceeded to both mourn and celebrate the chicken named Heart.

The children made drawings and gifts of recycled and art materials. They dictated their words to the teachers: "We love you Heart." "We will miss you." "We liked when you chose your name by walking on the paper with different names on it and you stopped on Heart." "You were the best chicken ever."

One of the teachers dug a hole in the garden. The children sat in a circle. Heart was placed reverently in a box. The box was brought around the circle so the children could put their offerings inside. Some of the children petted Heart. They said their last words to her. Some children hugged each other and cried. Others were happy thinking of her.

The children sang a song of peace to Heart the chicken and then returned to their rooms. Preschoolers have the capacity and resilience to mourn in their own way and be stronger for it. With caring adults around to answer their questions, death becomes another of life's lessons.




For other suggestions for creating quality time every time with preschoolers visit www.toolsofpeace.com

Elyse Jacobs with a background in education, art and art therapy developed the Peaceful Puppet Program 25 years ago in a San Francisco preschool. She continues to find delight in working with young children and helps parents do the same.




2012年10月27日 星期六

My Pillow Pets Splashy Whale


One animal that you do not see a lot of stuffed animals of would be whales. There are probably a lot of reasons for this, but they are an animal that some children really like. That has led to companies like My Pillow Pets creating a My Pillow Pets Splashy Whale. This fun item is becoming really popular with children because of its great looks, and it uniqueness. Here is the basic information you will need to know about this item to decide if you would be interested in purchasing one or not.

For starters, the look of this item is fantastic. The body is mostly black with a couple of white patches on it. It has some nice looking fins and a smiling face that kids seem to like. The material it is made from is also very important. It is made from a very soft plush material which kids love, and it also makes this item very soft and cuddly. Those are two things kids love to see in a stuffed animal.

The big thing that kids love about My Pillow Pets is that they can be both a pillow pet and a stuffed animal at the same time. This occurs because of some Velcro on the bottom of the stuffed animal which when attached creates the stuffed animal look. When that Velcro is undone, the stuffed animal instantly turns into a flat pillow that children love to use. This is a simple but unique concept that has really garnered a lot of support, and made these items very popular.

As for other important information, the My Pillow Pets Splashy Whale is for children ages three and up. There are a few small parts on this stuffed animal, so it is always important to check the recommend ages. This item is also machine washable, which I know parents like because these items do tend to get dirty. They are also very reasonably priced, and an item that is going to last a long time because they are durable. Those are all great factors for parents looking to purchase a stuffed animal.

All of these great qualities have added up to make this one of the more popular items currently on the toy market. These are gift idea for most children, and something that parents do not mind spending a little extra money on. So if you are looking for the perfect stuffed animal for a child you know, this might be one of the best options for you to look at.




And for more information about My Pillow Pets Whale, please visit the link provided. Additional information about all of the different great My Pillow Pets, including Magical Unicorn, can be found by clicking on the following link: My Pillow Pets Magical Unicorn.




Estate Planning? Don't Forget Your Pet


The older I get, the more I find myself reading the obituaries. I don't expect to know the people listed, I just find it interesting to read about their accomplishments. I ran across one the other day that made me think about an aspect of preparing ourselves and our estate for the end, that I had never considered.

The obituary read in part, "she leaves to mourn, sisters, nieces, nephews, etc., and her constant companion, her dog Lucky." It gave me pause. I'm sure that the poor departed lady was well prepared when the end came, with will witnessed and signed, thoughtful bequests, funeral arrangements already made, typed up and near to hand.

I wonder if she had given a thought to Lucky. I am a dog owner, of a loyal and loving boxer named Duke. It had never occurred to me to wonder what would happen to Duke if I died suddenly or even after a long illness. Young married couples with small children choose and name guardians for their children, in the event they should suddenly die or become incapacitated to the point of not being able to care for the children. You who love your pets, the way I love Duke, know that our pets are our children.

Similarly, you should plan for their care in the event of your death. You should have notices in a highly visible location, that announce that pets live in the home. You should put a plan in place with your near neighbors for them to provide interim emergency care.

For long term care after your death:

First, if the animal is clearly your pet whom you may be leaving in the care of a spouse or significant other, make sure that they will be keeping your pet if you should die. Don't assume it, discuss it in detail with your partner.

Second, no spouse? Inquire among family members if it is feasible for one of them to take over the care of your pet. If they agree, discuss it in detail. Prepare a list of important information, name and address of vet, special food needs, any chronic conditions, any prescribed meds the pet may be taking, any idiosyncrasies.

Third, if there are no family members who will agree to care for your pet in the event of your death, try close friends. You know your friends, and you will know whether or not they will be good guardians for your special friend.

If a family member or friend agrees to take on the care of your pet, please formalize the agreement. Have an attorney draw up a document, explaining the arrangement and also plan to set aside funds for the care of your pet.

What if there is no spouse, no family, no friend? If you are elderly and possibly in poor health, there are organizations that have made it their mission to work with you in placing your pet with an adoptive family. Check with your local SPCAs for the names of these placement specialists and start working with them early on, so that there will be a quick and smooth transition. Please let your attorney and family know that you have made this arrangement.

There are so many aspects to consider when we begin estate and death planning. Don't forget to plan for the future of your "constant companion."




Cliff deMarks is a multi-genre musician from Atlanta, Georgia. He has been blessed with the ability to play more than eight instruments, including piano, Hammond b-3 organ, saxophone and clarinet. In addition to jazz, he composes and produces the following genres: neo-classical piano, ambient and electronic new age, electronic dance, contemporary gospel and Christian hymns. Please visit his site dedicated to his dog Duke, http://www.puppylovemusic.com listen to and buy his CD, Piano Music for Your Dog.




2012年10月26日 星期五

Things to Consider Before Buying a Dog From a Pets Guide


Many factors need to be considered by a family, before bringing home a new pet.

Some are as followed:

GENDER - SIZE - HAIR:

What about the gender of the dog? Are you interested in a male or female? Will you breed the dog once it is grown? If a breeding program is not in its future, consider neutering the dog. Are you interested in a large or a small dog? Often, potential owners don't consider the frame size and weight of the puppy when it becomes an adult. Also think about the grooming needs of a long-haired dog versus a short-haired one.

VETERINARY CARE:

The dog will also need regular veterinary care. All these costs can add up, especially if you're on a limited budget. What type of dog do you want? Purebred or mixed breed? Research the traits of the breed that interests you. Be aware that some breeds have specific benefits or problems. In addition, some purebreds can be very expensive. Perhaps adopting from your local animal shelter is an option.

TIME:

Another important factor is your family's lifestyle. Do you work all day? How much free time do you have? Remember, a new puppy will require four or more feedings a day and will need to go out just as often. Do you spend a lot of time traveling or entertaining? Do you have small children or other animals at home? Are you physically able to handle a dog? What about your location? Do you own a home or rent an apartment? Will your landlord allow pets? Do you live in the city or in a rural area? Is there enough fenced-in yard space for the dog to properly exercise?

DOG ROLE IN YOUR FAMILY:

Think about the role your new dog will play in your family. Will it be used as for:

a) My son/daughter/children

Trust me; this will be YOUR dog! After the 'honeymoon period', the kids may only play with the dog, occasionally. They may groan and grumble about any dog-related responsibilities, doing them, begrudgingly, only after significant prodding from you. As children's interests and activities change, over the years, their level of involvement with the dog will most likely be, inconsistent, at best. Additionally, your children, especially, young children, will need to be 'trained' in how to behave with the dog and will need to be supervised when with the dog.

b) Protection

I know some may disagree but, it is my opinion, that the only time is it a good idea to get a dog for the purpose of protection is in professional or agricultural situations and only when the owner/trainer is humane and knowledgeable of dog behavior and dominant dog training/handling. In all other situations - probably 99.9% - an alarm system, security fence, or other measures are much more appropriate and effective.

c) To breed puppies

If you've read the third paragraph of this piece and still feel this way, there is probably little I can offer to change your mind. But, just in case, let me restate the case a little more thoroughly. The breeding of dogs is a responsibility not to be taken lightly. If it is not your intention to remain responsible for all of your puppies for their entire lives, including being willing to take back and care for those who may find themselves homeless, do not enter into this endeavor. If you are planning on breeding for profit, understand that there are much easier, more profitable and ethical ways to make a buck. Dogs are living beings and dog breeding requires a significant investment of time, money, labor, knowledge, both academic and practical, patience, and emotional fortitude, to be done responsibly and humanely. Please visit a few of the shelter and rescue websites, or your local shelter, and witness the problem yourself. View the faces of the homeless dogs and talk to the volunteers and staff who, all too often, must take that 'final walk' with them.

BUYING STRATEGY:

Once you've decided on the type of dog you want and where you will purchase it, do not buy a puppy on the first visit. Instead, potential owners leave, think about the decision, and then go back. Avoid the temptation of buying two or more puppies. A single puppy will bond to its owner better and will be easier to train.

Depending on the breed, the best time to purchase a puppy is between 7-9 weeks of age. As soon as possible have the puppy examined by a veterinarian. If possible, ask the seller if you can have the puppy checked by a veterinarian before you purchase it.




Visit Our Pets Health Guide Specialists on our Dogs Forum [http://www.petshophome.com] and discuss with our growing members about your pet on our Pets Forum [http://www.petshophome.com] to learn more about your pet.




Allergic Children - 5 Common Allergens That Trigger Pediatric Allergies


Allergies, or the body's overreaction to a substance that it mistakenly views as dangerous, can trigger allergic reactions in children that range from mild to life threatening. A specific protein is usually at the root of the problem even though the triggers may vary. Here are 5 common allergy triggers to which your child is most often exposed, and some tips for managing them.

Food - An increasing number of children have allergies that are food related and the most common foods seem to be peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, eggs, milk, cheese, crab, lobster, fish, and soybeans. With such a wide variety of possible products, one of the best ways to determine which foods cause problems is to keep a food diary. Then should an allergic reaction occur, you have a record of what was eaten and can better pinpoint the food that may possibly be causing a problem for your child.

Try avoiding the suspect food and make a note if there is no further occurrence. If there is another occurrence, continue on by eliminating other foods that may possibly contain the allergen. Involve your pediatrician in the process, and get advice for developing an emergency plan should you need it.

Pet Dander - 80 million American homes have pets as part of the family. Is there any wonder that pet dander is a common allergy trigger for children? Dander is invisible to the human eye and the protein in the dander can also be found in the pet's saliva, and urine. Pet hair can also attract dander which is sticky, and so just rubbing a pet's coat can cause a reaction.

If your pet pre-dates your child and there is a problem try bathing your pet to get rid of the dander, but consult your vet first. Make your child's room off limits to the pet, wash clothes and linens frequently to remove any dander that might have found its way into the room. Use a high efficiency particle arresting air purifier to provide an extra layer of protection against airborne dander that often attaches to other airborne pollutants in your home.

Environment - Seasonal allergies to tree, grass, and weed pollen are tough to avoid, particularly during the peak of the season. Curtail outdoor activities on dry windy days when pollen is more able to spread. Plan outdoor activities for days when the pollen count is low, and if possible avoid the outdoors during early morning hours when pollen counts are generally higher.

Keep your child's school informed of allergies, write a note on days when it is not advisable for your child to be outdoors, and if necessary get a note from a doctor to have on file should questions arise. Make sure all of your child's care givers have emergency contact numbers, and a clear procedure to follow should an emergency arise.

Insect Sting - Wasps, Yellow Jackets, Hornets, Black Flies and other insects can pose a serious threat to those who are allergic. Symptoms that often indicate your child's body is in overdrive are extended swelling, dizziness, weakness, vomiting, and headache. Should these symptoms occur, seek immediate medical attention. Afterwards, make a follow up appointment with your pediatrician, and ask about an Epipen that could be used in emergencies to counteract the severe and sometimes life threatening symptoms.

If in fact your child does have a sting allergy, find out all you can about the insect, when and where it is most prevalent, and help your child avoid places and activities that might expose your child to it.

Household - Pollutants such as household dust, dust mites, mold and mildew spores, pollen, bacteria, and viruses are present in the cleanest of homes. They are a constant aggravation and irritation to an allergic child. Many of these irritants are too small to be seen, but your child's body knows they are there and produces histamines as a reaction which often presents as a runny nose, congestion, sneezing, coughing, dark smudges under the eyes, and an overall lack of energy.

One of the best ways to combat these invisible airborne triggers is to constantly eliminate them with a high efficiency particle arresting (HEPA) air purifier that, by definition, can remove sub micron particles as small as .3 microns. And even though you may not be able to see the difference, your child's body will feel the difference.




An excellent HEPA air purifier to remove allergens from your child's air is offered by PurerAir.com-- the Baby's Breath Purifier See it now at http://purerair.com/babys_breath.html




2012年10月25日 星期四

The Power of a Pet


If you are a cat person, you are aware of the "power" your cat has over the household and you.

But, that is not what I am talking about.

The word pet can mean our animal friend and what they mean to us or pet can mean the gift you give your animal friend, when you give pets and scratches.

Both meanings are very powerful in what they do.

The purpose of today's article is to rekindle in your mind, the benefits having a pet brings, to our lives and to that of our family.

I want to show you the "silent power" a pet has in creating the people we are.

Many studies have shown that children, who have been brought up in a home that has a pet or pets, grow up to be more caring individuals.

Caring for a pet and having it be part of their lives helps a child grow into an individual that has empathy toward other people and what is happening in their world.

Pets also help people who suffer from low self-esteem or are self-centered to focus on something other than themselves.

Taking care of a pet teaches nurturing; it brings fulfillment to the person who is caring for the pet.

In many cases having a pet is the first time many people feel love and are able to give love in return. Pets can be trusted, a lot of people cannot be.

Having a pet to talk to, especially for a child helps establish emotional stability. You can tell your secrets to your cat or dog and know that they are safe.

Pets accept you for what you are and they do not discriminate; they give unconditional love.

A pet provides all kinds of entertainment. Puppies and kittens are a joy to watch and promote laughter.

A family that laughs together will share many happy memories.

Pets can expand your social world. It's hard to visit a dog park or take a walk without someone stopping to talk to you about your pet.

People at parties love to talk about their pets and share stories.

Pets bring about physical contact, you can't have a pet without touching it and feeling its warmth and love. Many people are afraid of physical contact and a pet helps to release that fear.

It is within a pet's power to bring you to the center of your Universe and fill you with energy, peace, and contentment.

Not only can a pet do all those things, your pet can bring you better health.

Petting a cat, dog or anything else that is warm and fuzzy can lower your blood pressure and help keep it down for almost 24 hours.

If you are depressed, cuddling and talking to your pet can cure the blues.

Taking your dog out for a walk can help you lose weight and enable you to meet people (what better way to cure the blues.)

People who have pets are known to live longer.

Perhaps, it could be the responsibility for their care, that make even people who have had heart attacks live longer than people who don't have pets.

The elderly in nursing homes become rejuvenated after a visit from "therapy pets." Patients who normally don't talk will begin to talk about their pet's visit.

The power a pet has over our lives is endless.

Did you know that dogs played a great part in helping with the discovery of insulin for diabetics?

A dog is a great pet for a diabetic to have, as it forces them to walk, and exercise is good.

A dog could save your life, many dogs have saved their owners by alerting other people, when they have fallen or collapsed.

Cats and dogs have saved people from house fires by waking them up.

In this world of fickle friends and fly-by-night relationships the most dependable thing you can have in your life is a pet.

They will love you unconditionally, through thick and thin and in times when "your mother would not even like you."

That my friends, is the power of a pet!




Pets play a very important part in our lives. Most of us, as children have had a pet or two, if only a jar of fireflies. My world has always been filled with a variety of pets, having 6 children, allowed me not only to mother them, but to take care of all the critters they invariably brought home. If you enjoyed this article come and visit me at http://www.cats-and-dogs-on-the-web.com I look forward to "seeing you."




Profitable Strategy in the Pet Business - Treat Pets Like People


A businessperson with even a casual liking of pets is positioned to capitalize big-time on America's pet craze. All you need to do is keep in mind that Americans increasingly treat their pets as children.

As the number of children per household declines, the number of pets is increasing. Baby boomers, a powerful segment of today's market, are quickly becoming empty-nesters and replacing their grown two-legged children with four-legged ones. Indeed, many people now call themselves pet parents or guardians rather than "owners."

"By buying pets human-type gifts, we are making ourselves feel good and making them happy," says Bob Vetere, chief operating officer of the American Pet Products Manufactures Association (APPMA). This trend suggests a hugely profitable strategy for entrepreneurs in the pet business: position pets as members of the family. Here are three ways:

Create human-like products and services for pets:

-Gourmet and specialty pet foods.

-Doggy and kitty treat cookbooks.

-Pet clothing.

-Human-type pet furniture.

-Coordinating "Mommy and pet" jewelry.

-Designer pet carriers, buggies, and strollers.

-In-home grooming services.

-High-end grooming products, such as aromatherapy baths.

-Pet portraiture.

-Pet birthday party supplies.

-Pet communicator services for pets with problem behaviors.

Rename your existing pet products and services:

-Your pet supply store becomes a pet boutique.

-Your boarding facility becomes a pet hotel.

-Your kennel becomes doggy and kitty day care.

-Your grooming business becomes a pet spa.

-Your dog training skills make you a pet behavior specialist.

Capitalize on the fur frenzy with your existing non-pet business:

-Extend your brand to include pet products.

-Feature pets in your ads and sales messages.

-Donate a portion of your profits to an animal rescue group (and say that you are).

-Welcome pets in your store or lodging facility.

-Have a food service? Host regular dog-and-human cocktail parties.

-In the construction business? Offer custom dog baths/showers in high-end homes.

As always, choose a marketing expert with a passion for pets to help you create a marketing plan that resonates with your market. People are eager to spend lots of money on their pets. You might as well be positioned to receive your share.




Lisa J. Lehr is a freelance copywriter specializing in direct response and marketing collateral, with a special interest in the health, pets, specialty foods, and inspirational/motivational/self-help niches. She has a degree in biology, has worked in a variety of fields including pharmaceuticals and teaching, and has volunteered for many causes including special-needs kids and literacy. When she's not writing, she enjoys reading, art, music, outdoor exercise, and all things Celtic and Renaissance.

Have you signed up for her free e-mail series on marketing strategies?

http://www.justrightcopy.com




Halloween Safety - Steps to Take For Keepng Children Safe While Trick Or Treating


Halloween is a much loved time of the year we associate with ghouls witches and spooky ghosts. It is also a time, similar to how we would celebrate bonfire night by lighting up the sky with fireworks. An entertainment program involving rockets, Catherine wheels or roman candles - needs to be carefully planned. Sadly, although a fabulous time for human fun it is not much fun for pets. Keep cats and dogs safe in the home, while field animals need sheltering. When preparing your to-do-list for Halloween night make sure you add the necessary precautions you need to take to ensure your children, your pets, and your guest's welfare.

Not wanting to spoil the fun but this is a prime time for accidents happening, in fact accidents dramatically increase when children trick-or-treat so bear this in mind.

Things you cannot afford to overlook if this Halloween night is to be an accident free zone.

The highlight of Halloween aside from trick and treating is dressing up, unfortunately dangers lurk that can be a hazard to your health from wearing Halloween costumes.

Tips to follow to stay safe:

1 If you have made your own Halloween costume or hired one then make sure they are flame retardant. And colorfast, so the color doesn't run if it rains.

2 Allow ample time for making adjustments to Halloween costumes if needed.

3 Halloween costumes need to be a sensible length to avoid tripping

4 Sew or stick reflective tape to your children`s outfits.

5 Avoid weighty masks no matter how good they look. Use make-up instead. Face cosmetics should be hypoallergenic and non-toxic.

6 Wear comfortable, practical shoes. As trick or treating involves a lot of walking and running in some cases.

7 When children are fully kitted up keep them away from lit candles and jack-o'-lanterns.

8 Replica swords, guns and knives can look so authentic that they put the fear of god up people. In the UK, fake guns can land you in trouble with the law. Make sure they're flexible and cannot harm anyone.

I think most parents today, who, although wish their child fun when trick and treating, - would rather have their kids stay at home to keep them safe. Kids are kids so therefore tradition upholds in the mind of a child. All we as protective parents can do is, "protect".

Trick-or-Treating Tips:

The most important thing is to have children supervised and accompanied by an adult while on their travels. If this is not possible and children are of a suitable age and can think sensibly then what you can do is to supply and give advice.

Have them carry a torch with new batteries.

Give them money for a phone call.

Organize kid groups to go trick and treating - so the kids are not going alone.

Set them a curfew and make sure they wear a watch. If the curfew is not met, then it gives you time to go searching. Allow for a little extra time, as kids get excited on seeing other little monsters and may forget time orders.

Plan their route so you know where they are at all times.

Tell them to stay on the pavement. Motorists will find it hard to see people wearing dark clothing unless wearing luminous armbands etc.

Tell the kids to respect people`s gardens and to trick or treat locally

Tell the kids to avoid unlit houses or not to accept an invite to go inside.

Give them a spare trick or treat bag -- in case their existing bag is overloaded with treats..

Tell them not to approach pets.

Tell them not to cut across yards and to stay in built up areas.

Warn them not to accept rides from strangers.

Tell the kids to be polite and say "thank you." This goes along way for getting treated well.

Be wary of sweets with loose wrappings, unwrapped or is homemade.

If you are still not sure about having the kids go out alone, propose an alternative like having a party instead.

Pet safety Tips:

Keep your pet in a quiet place away from trick-or-treaters and other Halloween activities. As much as we love the little horrors that come knocking, some little horrors, are, "horrors," and get a thrill from mistreating animals, sad I know but fact. Pets are habitual animals and could become frightened or agitated at the strangeness of what this particular night brings.

Make sure cats and dogs are collared or wearing ID tags in case of an accidental getaway while opening and shutting doors to trick or treaters.

Keep naked flame decorations like candles and jack-o'-lanterns out of kiddies and pet`s reach. Not only is the issue of getting burned serious, but the house can be under threat from fire if a candle is knocked over and goes unnoticed with all the excitement.

Do not leave hazard items around where your pet can chew on-like streamers and fake spider webs. If the house is electrically wired to light up, then place electric cord and cabling out of the way to avoid someone tripping over them.

Its funny how kids have nightmares watching scary movies but when it comes down to the meet and greet of the actual characters come October the 31st it's a horse of a different colour.




Funtime Halloween Costumes & More




2012年10月24日 星期三

10 Alternatives To Getting Rid Of Your Pet


So you've had your dog or cat for a while, and your life is changing, and now you think you need to get rid of your pet. But are you sure this is what you want to do? Getting rid of your pet is a very drastic measure. If you leave your pet at a shelter, you may think he will find a new home soon. But it is unlikely. Many high-kill shelters must euthanize animals each day in order to make room for new ones who have come in. Some animals are only at the shelter for four or five days before they run out of luck. Fifty-six percent of dogs and seventy-six percent of cats in shelters are euthanized... many of them healthy, well-behaved animals whose owners simply didn't have time for them anymore. Even in a no-kill shelter, your pet may be doomed to live out the rest of his life in a small cage if he is not chosen for adoption.

If you are willing to try keeping your pet, there are many things you can do. Lets look at some of the most common reasons why people get rid of their pets, and how to get around them.

Reason 1: I'm moving.

Solution: Bring your pet with! A quick Google search for "pet-friendly housing" will show you many different directories of rental housing that allows pets. Here are just a few that I found: People With Pets, Pets Welcome, My New Place, Pets911, Home With Pets, and Dog House Properties. And pet-friendly housing is not just limited to those sites! Many apartment buildings and complexes will allow pets. You may have to pay an extra security deposit. But in the end, it will be worth it, to keep your pet with you!

Here is something else you should know. If things get really bad and you have no place to live, you still may not have to give up your pet. Pets Of The Homeless is a website that works to help homeless people to keep their pets, or find temporary homes for their pets until they get back on their feet.

Reason 2: I can no longer afford my pets.

Solution: Call your local animal shelter, or food pantry, and ask about pet food banks. They do exist, and are becoming more and more common! You can even make your own dog food, which may be cheaper in the long run. (Its not difficult! Dogs can eat much of the same things we eat!) Your local animal shelter, or your veterinarian, may also be able to tell you about free or low cost vet care for your pets.

Reason 3: My new boyfriend/girlfriend/fiance/roommate doesn't like pets.

Solution: Are you really going to sacrifice your pet on someone else's whim? Are you sure you want to date someone or live with someone who doesn't like pets? That's a pretty big lifestyle change to make for someone else. If you're sure you want to stick with this person, work out a compromise. Maybe your pet can be banned from certain areas of the house, like the bedroom or the kitchen.

Reason 4: My new boyfriend/girlfriend/fiance/roommate is allergic to my pet.

Solution: As long as the person's allergy isn't life threatening, there are many things you can do to greatly reduce the allergens on your pet. Keeping your house clean is a giant step. Dust and vacuum frequently, and use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter if possible. You can buy an air filter for your home that sucks the allergens out of the air. A company called AllerPet makes a special liquid that you can wipe your pet down with regularly to get rid of the allergens on him. Sprinkling flax seeds in your pet's food can also reduce the amount of dander he produces. The person may even be willing to take allergy medication! After all, many people have seasonal allergies and take medicine regularly. They don't just get rid of the seasons!

Reason 5: We're having a baby.

Solution: Pets and children are a great combination! Most pets are perfectly fine around children, although they may be a little confused by the new arrival at first. You should always supervise your pet around young children. When your child is an infant, he probably won't be unsupervised anyways, right? As your child gets older, you will have to teach the child to be gentle with the pets. Do not allow your child to pull your pet's tail, poke him, pick him up, etc. Many people feel that a pet should be obligated to put up with whatever your child deals out. But that is not good for anyone involved! Teaching your child, from a young age, to be calm and nurturing around pets, is a great learning experience for the child. If you have a dog, you may want to do some extra training with him before the baby comes, to teach him not to jump up on you when you're holding the baby, etc. Other measures may include banning the pets from certain areas of the house, hiring someone to come walk your dogs or clean up after your pets when you don't have time to, etc.

Reason 6: I have developed health problems.

Solution: Speak to your veterinarian, neighbors, friends, people at your place of worship, etc. You can probably find some volunteers to help you take care of your pet. Having a pet can be a source of comfort when you are ill. In fact, many studies have shown that people with pets have lower blood pressure, lower heart rates, and are generally more healthy, than those without pets. If your health problems are so severe that you must move into a nursing home, maybe you can find someone willing too foster your pet for you.

Reason 7: My pet has developed costly health problems.

Solution: Speak to your veterinarian about this. They may be able to guide you to low cost veterinary clinics, veterinary schools that offer low cost treatment, etc. Many veterinary offices now offer payment plans for treatment. They may be able to help you find creative ways of raising money to pay for your pet's treatment, too!

Reason 8: My pet still isn't house trained.

Solution: If your pet is suddenly having "accidents" around the house when he used to be house trained, there could be a medical reason. You may want to consult your veterinarian. If the house training has just never completely been accomplished, you may have to start over from scratch. For a dog, take him out more frequently and try to get him on a schedule. If you are not home during the day, and your dog is eliminating on the floor or furniture while you are gone, you may want to consider crating him while you are not home. For a cat, switching to a different kind of litter, getting a bigger litter box, or moving the litter box to a different area of the house, can help. Clean up accidents with a mixture of vinegar and water. This mixture gets rid of the scent of urine or poop, so that the pet doesn't feel the need to "mark" that area again.

Reason 9: I work long hours, and don't have much time to spend with my pet. Its not fair to him.

Solution: While it may seem unfair that your pet has to spend time alone, it is still better than making him take his chances in a shelter! There are simple measures, such as providing stimulating toys for your pets, or leaving the TV on during the day, that can help your pet to feel less lonely. One nice thing you can do is buy your pet a special blanket. Sleep with it in your bed for a few nights before you give it to your pet. It will smell like you, and offer comfort to your pet when you are away from the house! You may also want to consider pet day care, or hiring someone to stop in during the day to play with your pets. Also, spending as little as fifteen minutes before you leave for work, just playing with your pet and spending quality time with him, can make a real difference. You don't have to be a perfect owner and spend tons of time hanging out with your pet. He will love you the way you are... and again, it is better to be alone at your home than to die alone in a shelter.

Reason 10: My pet has behavior problems. He bites/scratches/jumps on me, barks too much, etc.

You may want to consider a training class for yourself and your pet. Petco and Petsmart offer fairly inexpensive training classes. It can be a good investment! If you can't afford this, then the library can provide books on dog training, and the Internet can provide websites with tips. Try Googling a specific problem you're having. For instance, search for "teach dog to stop barking." Spending ten or fifteen minutes a day working with your dog, and then consistently rewarding your dog for positive behavior, can make a huge difference.

These are just a few of the common reasons why people consider giving up their pets. But remember, every problem has a solution. So, before you give up on your pet, please take some time to remedy the problems!




Nicki Mann lives in Chicago with her two dogs, Trixie and Lily, and her cat Sammy-Joe. Nicki's pets have taken over the computer to create their own blog about pet life! You can find it here: Trixie, Lily and Sammy-Joe.




Specific Words For Kids When a Pet Dies


"How do I explain this to my kids?" I find that many parents do not know how to talk to kids about death. I worked in bereavement care at a funeral home for fourteen years caring for children and their families when death occurred. While my major focus was on people, I often received phone calls about a cat, a dog or even a goldfish that just died. The parent's voice on the other end of the line said, "I have no idea what to say." The following suggestions were effective with real kids as young as two years old. A child who shows love is not too young to feel grief. You will be amazed at how well kids can handle death if the following principles are used: 1-Use simple concrete terms, 2-use short sentences, 3-pause regularly for questions. Here are some specific words and phrases you can use when talking with your child about death.

If the child was not there when the death occurred be sure to tell the child what happened, "Your fish died today while you were at school." (Please don't run to the store for one just like it, the kid will know, believe me). Dead means the 'breathing part' left the body in a mysterious way no one understands. It didn't hurt. The body is the part we can see. It doesn't feel anything anymore. We can't leave the body this way because it would not be healthy. We need to make a decision to either bury the body or cremate the body.

Cremation is done by an expert who heats the body (remember your pet doesn't feel anything anymore) to a very high heat. When the cremation is done the body is now ash and can be kept in a special jar, buried or scattered. If we decide to bury your fish, we can put him in a box, dig a hole in the backyard, put the box with the fish in the hole and fill the hole with earth. Your fish will help the garden grow. Once the life is gone, it will not come back. But you can remember and love your pet in your heart. That part never dies.

Whatever we decide about cremation or burial, we will also want to have a funeral. A funeral is where you show your love and appreciation for your pet. Let's think of some ways in which Hamster was special. Maybe you'd like to draw a picture. When you are finished, we can have the funeral in the backyard. You can also put Hamster's favorite things in the box with him. You may collect flowers from the garden and some special stones to decorate the grave. A grave is what you call the place where you bury Hamster. Next week we can make a stepping stone with Hamster's name on it and place it on the grave. This afternoon, we can find pictures of Hamster and make a collage.

Children are wise little people with strong feelings. As an adult the healthiest approach to explaining death to children is to be honest and concrete. Even in the most difficult circumstances, when a grandparent, sibling or parent dies, these principles can help start the child off in a healthy way. What you are really saying to the child when you include him is that you believe in him and understand his sad feelings. While you cannot take those feelings away, you can reassure him that "we are in this together and will help each other get through this difficult time." Using this approach will build coping skills the child will use all her life.

FAQ by Children

1. Where did my pet go? If you believe there is a heaven, you can tell your child the invisible part went to heaven and is happy and healthy. If you don't believe in heaven, you can tell your child that their pet is in their heart and a part of nature.

2. Will he come back? No, your dog won't come back. When a pet dies, it can't come back alive.

3. Was it my fault that she died? No, there wasn't anything you did. Your pet died because she received injuries when she was hit by the car. The injuries damaged her heart and it stopped beating. Her lungs stopped taking in air. She stopped breathing and her life-part left her body. Or, if the dog was old, he died of old age. He was all worn out and his heart stopped beating and he died.

4. What is he doing now? I like think his life-part is in heaven and he is happy and healthy.

5. Will I die too? Yes someday you will die too. Everything has a beginning and an end. But that probably won't happen for a long time. Most children live to be adults

6. When are you going to die? Probably not for a long time. I'm healthy and I take good care of myself.

7. Is God mad at me? No, God is not mad at you. He loves you. He knows you're a child and loves you just as you are.




Penny Halder
Granny Grace Productions
http://www.grannygracecares.com
Children's Bereavement Care Director Conley Funeral Home, Elburn IL (1987-2001)
Recommended Reading:
The Tenth Good Thing about Barney by Judith Viorst
The Hurt by Teddi Dolenski
Dog Heaven and Cat Heaven by Cynthia Rylant
These and other good books for kids with my written referral can be found and purchased on my web page.




2012年10月23日 星期二

Getting Ready For Your Pet Bunny Rabbit


How To Teach Your Children The Proper Care For Your Pet Rabbit!

Children are naturally innately drawn to cute, cuddle-y little creatures, and they will probably want to pick up, stroke and play with your new pet rabbit. But while this may be tempting, it's potentially quite dangerous -- both to the bunny and to your child.

Rabbits are sociable animals and generally like human companionship, but unlike dogs and some cats, they do not enjoy the same type of close contact. They are ground-dwelling creatures and prefer to have all they're legs on the ground. If your child tries to pick up your new pet, the rabbit will likely squirm, claw and perhaps even fall to the floor. Moreover, children may want to rough-house with their new pet, but rabbits can easily be harmed by such behavior, because their bodies are so fragile.

For all these reasons it is essential to teach children in advance about what to expect from their pet and how to treat their new fuzzy friend. Read the next chapter, which is all about understanding handling your new rabbit, and then sit down for a talk with your kid or kids. Explain that rabbits are not like other pets, and that they don't like being picked up.

Also, be aware that rabbits do not respond well to stressful or very noisy environments, so households with very hyperactive or very loud children may just not be suitable to a pet bunny. And if you have a particularly energetic young child, you should certainly supervise the child's playtime with the rabbit, so that you can affirm good behavior and correct bad habits.

There are several supplies you will want to purchase before you bring you new pet bunny home. You will need to have most if not all of the following items on hand:

Cage

Water bottle

Food dish

Food pellets

Fresh veggies

Hay

Litter box/pan

Rabbit toys

Make sure that you have enough of those essential supplies on hand before you bring your rabbit home, so that you don't have to run out and buy supplies while you're in the midst of getting your new pet settled into your house.

by Andrea Austin,

http://www.rabbits-n-bunnies.com




We hope you enjoyed this article. If you would like more information on pet rabbit care, click on this link to get your FREE Rabbit Care Guide: Bunny Rabbits




Tips on Choosing a Puppy For Families With Children


When you have decided to get a puppy for your family there are a lot of decisions to be made, especially if you have small children. As you realise there really is no perfect breed of puppy for small children. There are just some that have a better temperament than others and get along well with kids. It comes down to the individual puppy as to whether they will be suited for children not the actual breed they are. This is a broad statement though and common sense should prevail as a Pitbull Terrier and Dobermann Pincher are not great choices for families with young ones. Likewise a Northern Inuit puppy may not be your first choice as although one of the most beautiful dogs on earth, they grow very quickly and after just 6 months would be far bigger than your average family dog. Size should also be considered when selecting a puppy.

No matter which breed of dog you decide to bring into your home. Make sure that the puppy and your child are well supervised during the getting to know each other stage. If your child has not been around dogs or puppies before make sure to take the time to show them how to treat and handle their new pet. On the other hand, puppies tend to be very clumsy and excitable, so it is wise to pay close attention when the pup is interacting with a small child. The puppy could unintentionally hurt your child when it is jumping and trying to show your child how happy he is to be in his new home. Puppies love to play games and sometimes they nip while playing, if you are around early on these situations can easily be managed and stopped from occurring by you setting the behavioral ground rules early on.

Since families tend to be noisy and busy, make sure that the puppy you bring home was raised around people and is used to the commotion of a happy hectic household. You should be able to tell by the reaction of the puppies when they notice a person is there to see them. Otherwise you might bring home a pup that is not used to noise and will become agitated and nervous around your family. Try to match your children's temperament with the puppy's. If your child is very energetic you would want to choose a breed of dog who likes a lot of activity. On the other hand if your child is quiet and shy you would want to select a breed that has a temperament that is mellower. Below is a selection of dog breeds that are known to have child-friendly reputations. You might want to look into some of these as choices for your child's pet.

Beagle - They are very sociable and happy. They can be a little hard to train but they make an ideal family dog.

Cocker Spaniel - They are affectionate and an intelligent breed. They do require grooming and some exercise.

Labrador Retrievers - They are very good natured and enjoy playing and fetching. Labs are medium to large in size and need plenty of room and exercise.

Shih-Tzu - They are small affectionate, intelligent, little dogs and are great with all ages of children.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel - They have a very loving nature and easily adapt to any type of household. They do need grooming for their long coat and regular exercise.

Border Terrier - They are great for families with active children. They are good watchdogs and enjoy lots of exercise.

Golden Retriever - They are very popular family dogs in both the UK and the USA. They have a gentle nature and are great with other animals and children. They are a medium to large sized dog and need grooming for their longer coats.

Staffordshire Bull Terrier - They are a compact, muscular dog who is affectionate with children and loyal to their owners.

Pug - They are an affectionate and friendly small sized dog. They are considered a low maintenance dog due to the fact that they need very little grooming and minimal exercise.

After you have settled into a routine with your puppy and know you have found the right family dog. You might want to consider getting dog insurance on the newest four-legged member of your family. When you buy pet insurance it can help ease the cost of unforeseen medical expenses in the years to come. This will give you peace of mind knowing you will be able to get any medical treatments he may need in his lifetime. This is just a guide to let you know of some of the most common breeds of puppies that have been shown to grow up to be good family dogs. There are many other breeds out there that are good with children. Puppies that are mixed breeds or "mutts" as they are sometimes called make good family dogs too. Every puppy has its own personality and traits and there is no one dog that is better than another. It is definitely a personal choice of which breed or type a dog you choose for your family.




So please visit us to see how we can help protect your pet - you can buy online easily too at Pet Insurance by Animal Friends or simply call our friendly staff if you prefer on 0844 55 70 300; the policies won't cost you more and you won't be disappointed!




Moving With Care For Parents and Pet Owners


Moving to a new home is a tumultuous event for anyone but with preparation and the right mindset it is possible to reduce the stress and uncertainty of changing homes. A fundamentally important element when considering your change in location is the presence and attitude of children or pets that might be dependent on you for their safety. Closely monitor your mannerisms and thoughts to be the responsible caretaker you should be.

If you have a pet with you, you need to prepare for the physical process of moving as an event that is going to entail more than just picking up emotionless objects and traveling a distance to a new location. Because your animal friend is as attached to your home as you are, he or she is going to be disturbed when it notices that the furniture that it had grown accustomed to is being removed from its traditional place. Some animals, like dogs and cats, are intelligent and sensitive enough to pick up on the stress of their owners, so if you feel stressed out, consider the emotional state of your pet who is likely to be confused by the disappearance of the familiar home-landscape, distressed by their perception of your anxiety, and completely in the dark as to why these things are happening. Of course there is no way to comfort a dog or a cat with an explanation of why you are worried or why you have to move, but there are definitely methods to keep your animal's security and happiness a priority during the move.

Firstly, whether you a renting a van, driving your normal car, or take a bus, you can increase the comfort of your animal by maximizing the space that you give them during transportation. While it is not absolutely necessary to keep your pet in a crate during transportation, some pet-owners feel it is best for the pet's safety if they are in an enclosed area. But whether you choose to keep your animal companion in a crate or are planning to transport them without one, you should make the most of what little space you have by carrying as many objects as you can in a moveable storage container. This will free up the air for your pet, allow for more room for them to get comfortable, and will also reduce the danger of objects falling on them during the move.

The challenges posed to moving with a small child are similar. The biggest key to alleviating the burden of a move for a child is to make the preparation and physical transportation to the new home as fun and as enjoyable as possible. Certainly, during the initial preparation stages you should make sure to have many serious and informative talks about what it means to move to a new home and with children who are old enough to talk these conversations should include dialogue about how both the child and parent feel about the move, and predictions about what will happen in the new location. But alongside these serious talks you should be sure to make light of and have fun with the circumstances. Find out some interesting history about the new location you will be traveling to and share it with your child. Try having "goodbye" celebrations for your current home and neighborhood in the weeks leading up to your move, such as barbeques and visits to your favorite outing locations. Most importantly, encourage your child to spend time with their friends in the area, perhaps even making time in the days before the move to spend time with the child's friend's family as well.

The stress of a move is great and can be compounded by the presence of dependent people and animals. Because young children and pets can relate to the stress but remain reliant on you as their caretaker, it is easy to feel overwhelmed by the fact that you are responsible not only for your own success, but for the success of your dependents as well. But by being open with your children and compassionate with your pets, you can ensure that your move to your new home is a smooth one.




Mr. Oliver is a marketing agent of SMARTBOX USA. The mobile storage company provides portable and self storage resources throughout the nation. For more information on their Mobile Storage please visit their website.




2012年10月22日 星期一

The Best Dogs For Children - Tips to Help You Decide


Look for breeds of dogs with a good temperament. This is essential around children. Many kids are bitten by dogs because of their exuberant behavior. However, keep in mind any dog can make a good pet and every dog can be a bitter.

Some of the best dogs for children are:

Collies

We have owned Collies for almost 30 years and have never found one to be nasty or aggressive. These are wonderful dogs for children. They are large enough to handle a child's rough play and patient enough for crawling on or hair pulling.

Always gentle and loving, the Collie is watchful of kids and protective so you don't have to worry about anyone coming into your yard that isn't supposed to be there.

They do require a lot of grooming but the satisfaction of having a great, well rounded pet for you and your family is worth the effort.

Labrador Retriever

This dog is the most popular in the U.S. And if you have ever had experience with them you know why. Again, size of Labs makes it a great dog for kids. They are happy to be around their family and love to be in the family unit. You will find Labs sleeping near the kids when they go down for their naps or romping with them in the yard.

Grooming for these dogs is a snap. Just give a weekly once over with the brush and they're happy.

Pomeranian

This small dog is a great lap dog for kids and adults. The coat needs frequent brushing but usually repels dirt. A great companion, the Pom adjusts well to children and follows them around where ever they go. Some kids like to dress up their pets and this dog would take to getting spruced up and even carried in a "pet pouch".

The best part of owning a Pomeranian is that he can adapt anywhere and is perfect for apartments. However, being a small dog, he may tend to vocalize quite a bit.

If your family is taken by other breeds of dogs, then research is needed. The best place for complete information on all dog breeds is the American Kennel Club.

Some dog breeds have more of a predatory instinct than others. Terriers and northern dogs (Husky, Akita, etc.) for instance. They may mistake the cry of a baby or young child as injured prey and act accordingly.

Powerful breeds such as Dobermans, Mastiffs and Pit Bulls have great strength and can injure a child while playing.

Children need to be taught to be gentle and respectful of the dog's toys, food, sleep time, etc. This will make them aware that the family pet needs his own space at times and to leave them alone.

Consider your child's age before choosing a pet. Ask yourself if your young one is ready for a dog in the house. If your children are under 5 years old, you probably wouldn't need a high energy dog. You have enough to handle with your kids.

If you are thinking about getting a dog to teach your child responsibility, think again!. That is not a good reason for adopting a pet. If the child looses interest in the dog, then it won't be the child that suffers but the dog.

I'm sure since most of us have owned or own dogs; many of these tips are common sense. However, research into the characteristics of different dog breeds is essential for finding your perfect family pet. And if you are like us, you will find a great breed that will remain with your family for many years to come.




My husband and I have had dogs in our lives since we were born. We're not dog experts, just everyday people using trial and error over the years to see what works and what doesn't with our puppies and dogs.

We have owned many pure breed and mixed breed dogs through the years and each one was different in so many ways. When my husband and I married in 1978, our first dog was a Collie, Laddie. So throughout the years, Collies and now Shelties are our family dogs.

We adopted a 1/2 Husky, 1/2 Collie mix named Lady who is 12 years old and our second Sheltie, Kelsey is going on 6 1/2 years.