Pets Need Your Tender Loving Care - Much Like Children

If you view your pets as young children, you will ensure that you always have happy, healthy animals around your home. Just like children, they require a healthy diet, exercise, personal attention, play and training to understand right and wrong. If you do not enforce all of these principles, misbehaviour could result which can affect their health and safety.

The Correct Meal Plan

The size and breed of your pet will often dictate the type of food you choose for their diet. For instance, if you have a large dog like a mastiff, they need a higher calorie dog food specially formulated to support their bones and joints and active lifestyle whereas a small breed dog will need something entirely different. The age of your family animals also need to be taken into account because as they grow older, their dietary needs change.

Tools to Promote Exercise and Playtime

Family pets, when left to their own devices, often create their own activities - some of them destructive. Have you ever come home to find your shoes or furniture chewed on? With the right toys and activities, you will not only keep your pet entertained and happy, but you could also prevent destructive mishaps around the home. Balls, kongs filled with treats, chew toys, and tough, durable cotton or plush toys are just a few of many options for pet entertainment.

Training and Grooming Care

A trained pet is often a happy one. When taught a basic set of "rules" and acceptable behaviours, the animals in your family will flourish under your care because they know what to expect. There are many items that help in the training process such as special head collars, whistles, clickers, small treats to reinforce model behaviour and even training books and videos for pet owners.

Grooming is an essential part of pet ownership as it can also directly tie into their overall health. For instance, an ungroomed cat that is not brushed often can develop hairballs which can cause discomfort in their digestive tract. Flea and tick shampoos and conditioners are important as are preventatives so that your family animals do not develop any diseases or illnesses as a result of these pests. Of course, prescriptions and supplements for health maintenance may be a factor in overall care at some point in time.

As you can see, taking care of your family pets is quite similar to raising children. Both need proper nutrition, exercise, play, grooming and personal attention in order to thrive. Keep these things in mind before your family purchases or adopts a pet.

Chris Jenkinson is an internet marketing consultant working and writing for K9Capers an online pet supplier.

Children With Allergies Can Have A Pet - How To Pick The Right One Is The Problem

Mum dad said I had to ask you, can I have a pet, can I have one mum can I.

How many times have you heard it or something like it.

Please mum I promise I will look after it, I will do all the cleaning up after it and the pestering goes on.

You know it is not true because you did it yourself when you were a kid.

Your parents may have bought you a pet, regardless of what it was I bet they took over the care of the animal.

You are probably thinking to yourself now, I just do not have the time to care of a pet.

Think again you may be doing your child some harm by refusing them an animal friend.

1. It has been proven that animals in the home can be beneficial to a child, the child can build up a tolerance to allergies this way.

2. If your child has shown to be ill after being with friends animals you can work out what animal made them sick.

3. Long haired animals seem to be the worst offenders.

So why not look at some different species, hamsters a favourite of mine when I was a kid. The only trouble is they are nocturnal, and kids are not.

So the problem starts when the kid tries to wake the hamster during the day, if disturbed they can bite and as small as they are they hurt.

Rabbits are always a favourite with children, but they can also bite and scratch when frightened. If your child is calm towards their rabbit they can make good pets, but a boisterous child can scare the animal into biting.

Guinea pigs can make marvellous pets especially if they have been handled from a young age. But they do not like to be on there own, they are often kept with a rabbit for company.

If you know for a fact that your child is allergic to fur clad animals there are numerous options.

1. You may not like the thought but snakes can make an interesting hobby for a child.

2. How about fish you do not have to just go with a goldfish in a glass bowl. There are hundreds of tropical fish to choose from. Another alternative nowadays are cold water fish, do some research they can be fascinating.

3. My grandson was allergic to all fur clad animals when he was younger, he suffers with allergic asthma his parents bought him some geckoes ( small lizards ) he now breeds them for sale.

4. Terrapins can also be a great hobby for a youngster with allergies, but I would think carefully about this subject because there is a lot of work involved getting the conditions right for them.

5. A little known fact, it has been shown that boys who have had pets and have actually been involved in their upkeep. Will grow up and have a better understanding about children as they get older, meaning they can turn out to be better fathers.

There you have it folks you may have to care for the family pet yourself, while the kids have the fun bit playing with them.

But you could be doing your children a big favour by granting them their wish an animal to love. You never know it might take you back to your childhood and you will love every minute of it.

If you are still stumped as to what pet you would like, have a look on the internet but if you decide it is going to be some exotic animal you are on your own.

I have not got a clue how you would look after a big cat or a crocodile cheers folks.

Chris Emmerson full of aches pains and woes but sorry folks still around contrary to some folks wishes.

The Benefits To Children When They Have A Pet

The dictionary definition of a pet is: "a tame animal kept as objection of affection." Every parent wants their child to be affectionate and will often prompt them to do so by requiring them to give a kiss or cuddle. There are however experiences in life that help such attributes to grow and blossom naturally. Here are some other benefits to a child when they have a pet:

It teaches them about commitment and responsibility
This is the time when children learn to persevere even when they don't feel like it. Their dog will still need taking for a walk even if they are tired or it's raining hard. Sometimes they will have to put someone else's needs before their own and still be there for them. Giving up isn't an option when an animal needs feeding and the child learns how, by overcoming their own feelings, they become trustworthy and reliable. They will have to learn to prioritize and manage their time. This is a marvellous characteristic to learn at an early age that will bring them great benefits in the future when looking for a job or a marriage partner. It will win them many friends, as their pet won't be the only one to appreciate these qualities.
It teaches them about the animal world and nature
When our son acquired a different sort of pet- a Gekko, he spent some time looking on the internet to find out how to house him, feed him and care for him. To know about Gekko Pet Care was important when the reptile couldn't survive without a certain temperature and diet. It was a matter of life and death. He learned a lot about reptiles and the Gekko certainly seemed to do well in the safety that our son's knowledge provided him. The animal world is vast and amazing and with just a little time and effort can teach us much about the whole world in which we live and the role we play in it. By reading and making notes, our son's new project helped to improve his academic skills also of reading and writing. In the end it did his self-confidence good to know that he was an expert in a field that many adults even, knew little about.
Often gets them outdoors in the fresh air
In the Western World where many children are now obese and yet the temptations of sitting too long at screens are huge, having a pet is a great way to add diversity and exercise to their lifestyle. Obviously different sorts of pets have different needs. Generally, the larger they are, the more space and exercise they need. Even small pets need a bit of housework on their cages every few days and by getting them out and playing with them children are developing their motor skills. When dogs need taking for a walk it forces the child to take a break from their indoor occupation and gets them out into the fresh air, providing valuable aerobic exercise. It's also an opportunity to explore the countryside and discover new areas of their neighbourhood. The life and excitement of a dog who has been offered a walk gives a lift to any child's mood and encourages them to meet other people.
Gives them a companion to love and share
Nowadays many families consist of one child who needs a companion. This is exactly what a pet can be for them. It enables them to learn the skill to some degree, of sharing and caring for someone else, so that when they do go out into the world, they are able to relate more easily with other people. Just as it can be a relief and therapeutic to be able to talk to someone and just have them near, so with a pet a child can feel comforted knowing that they are there and they can talk to them even if their pet cannot answer back. Even the act of stroking an animal can be very soothing and calming. The saying that "a dog is a man's best friend" has often been proved to be very true.

This article has not mentioned the negative aspects of owning a pet such as the mess, noise, expense and time commitment, but it can certainly be argued that the advantages outweigh the disadvantages.

Christine Hulme loves writing about ways in which we can "live well" in a difficult world. She believes in creating a safe place in a healthy family environment, from which she believes we can go out and accomplish great things. She has an NVQ3 In Early Years Care & Education and loves cooking, arts & crafts, music, guitar, singing, walking, swimming and sharing these things with others.

For further articles about this subject go to Guinea Pig Adventures and Pets For Kids-Making It Work

My Pillow Pets Snuggly Puppy Review

There are a lot of fantastic options from the My Pillow Pets Dogs collection. With so many different ones to choose from, picking the right one is going to come down to finding one your kid enjoys and loves the look of. The most popular of the dog collection would probably be the My Pillow Pets Snuggly Puppy. This pet is a lot of fun, and something that children are sure to love, especially if they enjoy dogs. Here is a basic review of the product, hopefully making it easier for you to decide if you would be interested in them or not.

The first thing you should know about these products are that they have dual usages. The first usage is as a stuffed animal, and that occurs when the Velcro on the underneath of the animal is attached. The second usage is as a pillow, and that occurs when the Velcro that is underneath the stuffed animal is undone. Both of these options are very neat, and kids love to use these pets in both of those situations.

The second, and probably most important thing you should know about My Pillow Pets Puppy, would be what it looks like. In the case of this product, it is going to be made out of a very soft plush material, which makes it very easy to cuddle with, and gives it a great looking fur. The rest of the look is a brown body with a small little tail, a dark spot on the back and on the ears, and a very cute and smiling face. It looks very realistic and stands on four legs like a puppy would, making it something that kids love to play with and use as a stuffed animal.

The third thing that you should know about this product is why parents enjoy them so much. It is obvious why children like them, because they are soft and cuddly, and because they look great. Parents love them because they are recommended for children ages three and up, because they are very reasonably priced, because you have some neat options to choose from, because they are very durable, and because they are machine washable, making them incredibly easy to clean.

All of those factors above really make this a very popular product. When both parents and children like receiving an item, and parents see it as a great value, you can easily see why so many people have decided that My Pillow Pets Snuggly Puppy is a great gift idea, and why so many people have already purchased this product.

And for more information about My Pillow Pets Snuggly Puppy, please visit the link provided. Additional information about the My Pillow Pets Dog collection can be found by clicking on the following link: My Pillow Pets Dogs.

Children and Pets

Little children have always been fascinated with animals, even it' s about pets, zoo animals or farm animals. Maybe because they see them in various backgrounds, in the street, on posters, in books, in their neighbors patio, on television, or they have plush pets. Babies may like pets because of the noises they make, or maybe because pets are very playful and express happiness.

Your baby is so happy when he sees an animal. Take advantage of this and have a lot of fun with him, as well, making "Animal" signs. This is very educative, too, as your baby learns facts about animals, which one is dangerous and shows its claws or fangs, which one is friendly, what to do when he sees an animal, and so on. The American sign language provides signs for all common met animals and it is very easy to learn.

You can learn how to sign the most common met animals in your baby's life, regardless the settings - "Cat", "Dog", "Bird", "Fish", "Cow", "Sheep", "Horse", "Chicken", "Frog", "Elephant", "Lion", "Cow" and many others. In order to make this process become even more educative, you can associate them with other signs, like "Egg" with "Chicken", "Milk" with "Cow", "Lion" with "Danger", "Dog" with "Friend" and many other examples. You can combine signs at the Zoo, for example, if your baby is thrilled by a monkey, you can sign "Monkey" and then sign "Happy". Or if your baby sees a bird in the park, you can sign "Egg" and say "Chicken are birds and birds make eggs".

It won't last long until your little kid will ask for a pet. They all do. You should be very careful when taking such a decision. If you allow your child to have a pet, or you already have one, then you need to ask for specialist advice in order to keep him safe and, at the same time, create a friendly relationship between the pet and your little kid. Some doctors think that pets and children should be separated, others recommend they stayed together even from an early age, as this would help your baby's immune system get stronger. The most recommended pets for people who have babies are the fishes. Whatever the species are, they are not dangerous at all and they are fascinating for both adults and children, the image of an aquarium with fishes is very calming.

Alexandra is the editor of this article, but she also started a new project about how to use a clicker garage door opener [http://www.clickergaragedooropeners.net/]. This is a website which also provides more info about the most common garage door problems [http://www.clickergaragedooropeners.net/garage-door-problems-most-common-malfunctions-and-their-sources].

Things to Know About Hamsters As Pets for Children

If your child has been begging you for a hamster, chances are you're considering giving in, or you wouldn't be reading this. Before purchasing hamsters as pets for children, there are a few things adults should consider.

First, if you purchase an animal, you should accept that while the pet belongs to your child, you'll also be a primary caregiver. You'll have to assist your child with cleaning the hamster's cage, feeding it regularly, providing it with fresh drinking water, and taking it to the vet if it becomes necessary to do so.

Keeping hamsters as pets can be a lot of fun, but there is also some work involved. Be sure that your child understands that pet ownership is a responsibility, not a right. You should also help your child to understand a few basic facts about keeping hamsters as pets.

Hamsters are Nocturnal

Hamsters sleep during the day and play at night. This means that your child's pet may not always want to play when he wants to play. Ask your child how he would feel if you woke him up at 3AM to play jump rope, and then explain that this is how the hamster feels when it is bothered many times during the day. You may want to set a regular time during the evening for your child to play with his hamster.

Hamsters can Bite if Provoked

Hamsters as pets are generally safe animals, but if they are provoked, scared, or treated poorly they can bite. Remind your child about the necessity of treating the hamster gently at all times to help them avoid a painful hamster bite.

Hamsters are Delicate Animals

Hamsters are not suitable pets for very small children. They are small and fragile, and their bone structure is extremely delicate. They can be easily injured if they are squeezed or dropped; an easy accident when they're around an overzealous child. If your small child wants a pet, choose a sturdier animal, such as a fish or hermit crab.

Hamsters Need Regular Maintenance

Hamsters as pets do require some maintenance. You may need to remind your child to clean out the hamster's cage, change its bedding, and give it regular food and water. Your child's hamster will also need to be handled regularly. Be sure that the hamster has plenty of toys and cage accessories for play and exercise, to prevent annoying chewing behavior.

By teaching your child about responsible pet care, you're providing them with skills they can use for a lifetime. Hamsters are an excellent animal for older children to keep as pets; they're friendly, active, and require just the right amount of responsibility.

My name is Kevin Highfill. Please visit my site at http://www.online4pets.com/ to discover more information about hamsters as pets.

Large Breed Dogs That Make Great Family Pets

There are many breeds of large loveable dogs that make wonderful family pets. They are not well suited for small homes, apartment or condominiums, as they require more space to roam and exercise. A large home with a big backyard or country living is ideal. Large dogs are often very social and great with older children. These loveable monsters can knock over smaller children accidentally. Make sure that whatever breed of large dog you might consider, always learn as much about the breed as possible. Anybody that chooses a large dog should be prepared to train it well, to prevent injury to others, teach them manners and socialize there pet. When a small dog jumps up to greet you, it is far different from a sixty-pound dog. Also, remember that dogs are social animals and want to live with the family, not outside by themselves. Your dog will need a lot of exercise so if you are a couch potato, you may find a toy breed of dog more suitable for your lifestyle. Bored dogs can develop some bad habits and destructive behavior so exercise, long walks and playing are a necessity.

Large dogs eat more so cost more to feed. You must supply your dog with a high quality food, balanced specifically for larger breed dogs and the same for large breed puppies. Large breed dogs are usually much rougher on their toys, so make sure any you purchase are durable, big and sturdy.

Some people have referred to Afghan Hounds temperament as cat like because they love to be petted and then go and lay down for a nap. Terrific with children of all ages, they love to clown around and show off. These loyal, gentle and kind dogs are extremely loyal to their human family. Afghan hounds have a wonderful, long, luxurious coat but do require frequent grooming. Approximately 27 inches high, their average lifespan is around thirteen years.

The intelligent German shepherds are great with older children when raised with them. Training and early socialization is necessary, along with a large fenced yard for exercise. Extremely intelligent, these large dogs are very loyal.

English setters make wonderful family pets that are great with children. They are very gentle but let you know when a stranger knocks on the door. Be prepared to spend time brushing them a few times a week and trimming every six or eight weeks. They require well-fenced, large yard.

Saint Bernard's are great big loveable family dogs. Although they have a deep bark, they are not good watchdogs. They require a large yard to exercise. There are two varieties, which are the shorthaired and longhaired. Both require weekly grooming to control their shedding. Because of their weight and large size, Saint Bernhard's are prone to hip dysplasia. Their life expectancy is around eight or nine years.

The Newfoundland is a great big cuddly bear of a dog, good with children and very protective. Because of their calm, tolerant nature, they made wonderful family pets. As with most of the large breed of dog, a secure fenced yard is necessary. Because they do shed, brush them a couple times a week.

Large breed dogs are harder to shop for. Since large breed products usually take up more space, retailers carry less of them. To find a great online selection of Large Breed dog beds, dog feeders, and more supplies for your big dog, check out Oh My Dog Supplies

A Look at My Pillow Pets Bear

New and fun toys come out every year, with some of them being better than others. One of the best options so far this year has been the My Pillow Pets products, with one of my favorites being the My Pillow Pets Bear. This adorable item is becoming very popular among young children, and is recommend for children age three and up. For people that want to get ahead on Christmas shopping or that is looking for that perfect gift for an upcoming birthday, deciding on a stuffed bear with a unique twist might be one of the best ideas you can have. Besides, what kid does not want to have a great looking stuffed animal that they can use as a pillow during bed time?

Options are always a big deal when picking from stuffed animals, and with this product you are going to have a nice selection. The two most popular items are always the My Pillow Pets Bear 18" and My Pillow Pets Bear 11" items. Both of them are almost identical except for size and cost. As for size, the 18 inch one is more popular because it is bigger, and kids generally love those bigger stuffed animals. The 11 inch version is great as well, mostly because younger kids can easily hang on to it and carry it around, and it becomes the perfect travel version.

Both of these items are going to be a brown color, white a white face, and the long nose that kids love on bears. They are also both made from the same material, which is a soft plush material. The color scheme and the materials are a big reason why kids love them. They look great, and that is always a very important factor when picking out a stuffed animal.

Another very fun part of this is the possibility of getting a My Pillow Pets Bear Backpack. These are fantastic travel bags because they have a cuddly bear on the outside, and can hold all sorts of things. They are perfect for kids going on a vacation, or young kids going to preschool. When you combine this great selection of products with the great look they have, and the fact that they last a long time, and are very reasonably priced, there are many people that are very happy to purchase these products.

Bears are not always the favorite animal of children, and that is okay since there is a wide selection of different animals in the My Pillow Pets collection, including things like My Pillow Pets Cat. If you are looking for the right gift, this might be the perfect option for younger children, and something that most people enjoy.

And for more information about My Pillow Pets Bear, please visit the link provided. Additional information about other great stuffed animal products can be found by clicking on the following link: My Pillow Pets Cat.

Toffee Pony Interactive Emotion Pet - Cheaper Than a Real Pony!

Toffee Pony Interactive Emotion Pet is the best-selling toy pony from Flair and is a fun and engaging toy for all those children who just love to own a real pony. Little girls, and boys will have so much fun when playing with Toffee the Pony as they experience his interactive qualities, and learn how to take care of him. Toffee Pony Interactive Emotion Pet was a best seller in 2010 and is expected to be just as popular this year.

The Toy Pony Who Loves to be Loved

He loves to be brushed as well as chomping on his carrot and will let you know how much he enjoys both with his realistic sounds. Toffee has some great interactive features such as swaying his head, opening his eyes when he wakes up, and neighing when he's hungry or scared. He can also wiggle his ears and when he's tired he will fall asleep.

Toffee the Pony is aimed at children aged 3 years and older and comes complete with his own toy carrot and grooming brush. This toy is 50cm in length, and requires 4x AA batteries.

Like a Real Pony

A real pony just isn't practical these days, the mess and horse feed alone. Seriously, this toy pony is really life-like and will keep children entertained for hours. Children will feel like they are looking after and caring for real animal, which promotes a great sense of responsibility, which is why this toy pony is a great educational as well as fun pet pony to have. Children's imagination will help them have many fun adventures with Toffee.

Older interactive toys, due to more circuitry being required, could be cumbersome, awkward and not really look like what it was meant to. Not so with the new breed of interactive toys, as technology has advanced so has the realistic nature, making Toffee soft and huggable, while hiding and protecting his electronic parts. He comes with the Lion Mark for safety.

Summary

Toffee Pony Interactive Emotion Pet is a great interactive toy for younger children, has some great realistic sounds, has no restricted movement and is small enough to carry around but big enough to play with. Toffee is bound to be a big seller this year too. I have seen some 'stock is limited signs' on some retailer websites, so if your child has asked for Toffee, don't hang around!

The Best Kids Toy Shop has more great Toffee Pony Interactive Emotion Pet information. If you are considering buying this toy or other great interactive toys for Christmas and want to find out more, please visit http://bestkidstoyshop.com/toffee-pony-interactive-emotion-pet

Guinea Pigs As Pets

Guinea Pigs have very docile personalities and love to be handled and loved. This makes them the perfect pet, especially for children that can respect their gentle nature. However, you will want to know a few things before you pick your pet.

1. Guinea pigs are really sociable and need a steady flow of attention. In today's busy world, you might find it difficult to give your pet Guinea Pig everything it needs to stay healthy in terms of attention. Children especially can fall short of handling their pets enough if they have busy little lives...as many children do these days. A good fix for that is to get two guinea pigs that can keep each other company. However, be extra sure that both of your pets of choice are the same sex or you might have a whole litter of these cutie patooties.

2. Keep in mind that these pets live about 7 years, so this can be a long term commitment. However, these pets can be a great way to teach children long term responsibilities about caring and loving. Just be sure that you are willing to supervise. Check in on your child's pets to be extra sure they are getting everything they need.

3. These little pets need lots of room in their cage. Most cages sold in the pet stores are much to small for a healthy guinea pig. It's okay to build your own cage as these pets don't try to escape their home! This can make for a much nicer home for your little piggie and less expensive as well.

Beyond selecting your pet you will want to know how to care for these gentle creatures. Visit the Guinea Pig Guide [http://www.guineapigguide.info] to learn more free tips for caring for your little piggie. It's worth a little knowledge to keep these easy-to-love pets in tip top shape. So click now to see the The Piggie Guide. (Some cute pictures too!)

Top 3 Breeds When Having Hamsters As Pets

When you think of dwarf hamsters, you may think of furry, cute, small, cuddly creatures. It's true that these little guys have many traits and characteristics that we enjoy when having hamsters as pets. There are different sizes, shapes, and breeds to chose from. It can be a fun activity for the whole family. Below, we've provided some important information about different breeds for owning hamsters as pets.

They are basically clean and do not involve any elaborate procedure of maintenance. Owners just need to be on the alert for any kind of illness or disease that they might contract. They have a life span of about 3-3.5 years, and unfortunately, this is a very sad aspect of owning hamsters.

The Three Main Types of Hamsters

Syrian Hamsters: As the largest of all the types of hamsters, the Syrian hamsters can easily be kept as pets. Keeping Syrian hamsters as pets are suitable for both adults and children as they are friendly and tend to bond very quickly. As a nocturnal animal you will find them more active during the evening and night times. The black bear hamster, golden hamster, and teddy bear hamster are its other common names. Because of their unique traits, this type of hamsters is more commonly owned in most households.

Russian Dwarf Hamsters: The Russian dwarf hamster is refer to by several different species of hamsters that includes the Winter White Russian Dwarf Hamster, Campbell's Russian Dwarf Hamster and the Roborovski Dwarf Hamster. The Campbell's Russian dwarf hamster is the most common type that can be kept as a pet. They come in many different shades, combinations of colors, and have many spots. Because of this, people tend tohave a range of options to choose from. Most people enjoy keeping them in pairs because they are social creatures by nature. If you keep a hamster as a single pet, they tend to get lonely. While it's fun having Campbell's Russian Dwarf hamsters as pets, it may not be the best choice of hamster for children. Compared to the other two, the Roborovski dwarf hamster is smaller in size but has longer legs. Because they have so much energy it can be a challenging pet to keep happy. An interesting fact associated with them is that they are extremely clean and spends most of the time grooming themselves.

Chinese Hamsters: The Chinese hamsters require owning and maintaining a large cage to live. They are relaxed, slower, and more calm that other hamsters. This makes them very easy to own with children or adults. Their small size and unique characteristics make them an ideal pet for all household. Because their attitudes and disposition is mild, they are the easiest to handle and play with. Because of this, most children enjoy owning the Chinese hamsters as pets more than other breeds.

Above all, it's important to remember that male hamsters are more appropriate as pets than the female hamsters. While some disagree, many find that owning male hamsters as pets requires less cage maintenance and more ease with brining in new members to your hamster family.

Mary Wilbur is a Dwarf Hamster expert. For more great information on hamster adoption [http://www.dwarfhamsterscare.com/hamsters-as-pets/], visit www.dwarfhamsterscare.com [http://www.dwarfhamsterscare.com]

New Babies and Pets - Can They Coexist?

When you bring a new baby into a home with a pet, there are always concerns. Will the pet harm the baby? Will the pet cause allergies? These are the two most common questions, in addition to many more. The fact is bringing a baby into your pet's world can take some adjusting. But there are things you can do to make the transition go smoothly.

In most homes the pet was there first. When you have a pet and no children, there is plenty of time to devote to the pet. You can play, go for walks, and snuggle up with your pet on cold days. But then you bring the baby home. All of the sudden you are devoting more time to this bundle in the blanket, and the pet doesn't understand why. There may be some jealousy to begin with, but pets love their families unconditionally so they will adapt to the changes quickly.

Many people worry that their pet will harm the new baby. This very rarely happens. If your pet isn't aggressive, you shouldn't have any problems. Allow your pet to become acquainted with the new addition to the family. While you are holding the baby, let the pet look and sniff so they can become familiar with the baby's scent. Generally, dogs and cats are curious about the baby. They don't want to harm it.

This being said, you should still supervise the pet when it is in the same room as the baby. Large dogs may jump up to get a closer look and knock over an infant carrier or bassinet. Cats may try to snuggle baby in the crib, so keep the baby's door closed during nap time.

To protect your child from curious pets, make sure you keep the pet's nails clipped. The cat or dog may try to paw at the baby and sharp claws can scratch. It is also a good idea to keep your pet bathed and brushed to help prevent excess shedding. Babies like to put everything in their mouths and you don't want their toys covered in pet hair!

Some people mistakenly believe that having pets in the house cause allergies. It is actually the opposite. Studies have shown that children who grow up with pets in the house have fewer allergies than those who don't. This could be because their bodies develop a resistance to pet dander since they are exposed to it on a daily basis.

The bottom line is pets and babies can safely live in the same home. In fact, your pet will soon become fiercely loyal to your new addition. Plus, you children will learn to love animals if they have one that is a part of the family.

Piper enjoys spending time with her family and their three dogs. She gets rid of pet odors so her home is always smelling fresh. She writes about anything and everything on her blog, www.reviewmama.com.

Pets - A Fun Loving Experience For Children

Pets are a great companion especially for children. Almost all children love to have pets at home. It is because of the simple reason that they find a mate and a good friend in them. There are many animals which can be kept as pets at home but it is very important to choose a pet which is best suitable to the family. Pets like dogs, cats, fishes and many more are some options open for you. The pet must be suitable to the environment and also to the family.

Not all types of pets are good. Some may like keeping small pets while others may want to keep big pets. So if you are not able to make a choice then here are some options which you can go for.

1. Dogs

Most of the kids are attracted towards dogs. Dogs are not only good friends but also very faithful. Once they are trained they become well behaved and comfortable with the atmosphere. They require great care so that they are able to adapt themselves in the new environment. You have many dog breeds for you to choose ranging from big to small. The liking of your kids must be kept in mind.

2. Cats

Some kids love to have cats as their pet. The best thing about them is that they can be easily handled. As cats like to be alone therefore they don't require any support. They are flexible so can get attached to the family. When a new born baby cat is brought it needs great care but once it is grown up they are able to take care of themselves. Keeping all these things in mind cats are considered to be the adorable pets.

3. Fishes

Keeping fishes at home is considered as a lucky sign but it is also charming to watch the beautiful fishes moving here and there. The kids also enjoy watching them. It is an exciting experience to feed the lovely small fishes. Their colorful body and slender movements is definitely an eye catching feature. But care has to be taken that the tank in which they are kept is clean. Suitable chemicals are regularly added to maintain the PH value.

4. Birds

Even the birds are beautiful species as they have different characteristics. All birds have special features that make them different. There are several kinds of birds like parrots, pigeons and finches. Because of their unique nature they are most preferred by the kids and their family.

These are some fabulous options that I have presented before you. Hope you like them and make any of the above pet as a part of your family.

If you are interested in traveling with your pets and looking for Pet Friendly Hotels then kindly visit us at http://www.officialpethotels.com/

Managing Dogs Around Children

In most of American households, dogs are adopted because the child demands it. Parents may or may not be fond of dogs, but once a child sees a cuddly puppy and wants to get it, it is fait accompli that the household will sport a pet dog.

While it is a wonderful event for a household with a child or children to bring home a puppy, many parents think their duties end with that. Of course, they have to care for it, tend to its needs and all that, but few parents think of the relationship that is going to develop between that dog and their child. This omission can be a serious mistake. Why so, you may ask.

Let us examine the circumstances. A child can hardly distinguish between a pet toy and a pet animal. To him or her, they are things that satisfy their momentary passion for diversion. While a toy can be discarded or abused, a pet cannot be. I may offend parents, but note this. A child has no concept of right or wrong, good behavior or bad behavior. Therefore, children, unless properly monitored, can turn into incredibly cruel and selfish human beings. When this cruelty manifests itself unchecked against a helpless, defenseless pet, it can perpetuate the child's personality.

Ever witness a dog being "teased" by a child. No? Watch carefully. Children often pull or box a dog's ears (which is extremely painful), land on them, try to pry open their jaws, pull their tail, poke their eyes....the list goes on. Some kids do it rarely, others do it often.

So one of your responsibilities is to make sure children treat their dog with decency and care. It is as much commonsense as it self-defence. If a dog is irritated enough times, he can turn on the tormentor in a vicious way. While nothing is fool proof, here are some tips on how to ensure children and their pets have a healthy, positive and fulfilling relationship..

1. Do not let children use any sharp objects around dogs.

2. Coach children in playing with the dog. Frisbees, balls, bones and other rounded objects are great for dogs to fetch. While you have to go through the boring exercise of teaching the dog on how to fetch, once you both have mastered the technique, it can give you and your children hours of pure fun. And it will get your children to be active.

3. Teach children to stay away from dog's mouth and tail. Children have a nasty habit of prying open dog's jaws to look inside and pulling dog's tail. Many dogs view this as a threat and will react violently. Not the first or second time, but some time.

4. Rough physical sport with dogs should not be encouraged, specially with young children. Neither Dogs nor children know the limits of rough and tumble games and what may look as innocent roughhousing can turn into a deadly act.

5. Teasing dogs is fine as long as it is done from a distance. Never encourage teasing with an object, such as poking the dog, or hitting him.

Good luck.

Recover From the Grief of Pet Loss - 10 Myths Revealed

To recover from the grief of pet loss many people go through a mourning process that is similar to that of losing a human being. The feelings of loss are real and can be a profound source of pain in their life. Many friends of the aggrieved find the pain that the person is suffering to be out of proportion to the loss. Below are 10 myths about how to recover from the grief of pet loss:

Myth#1: Individuals who experience intense grief over the loss of a pet are somehow strange or weak people.

Fact#1: Emotionally healthy people often react strongly to the loss of a beloved pet. This is normal, healthy, and even something to be proud of. It should not be a source of shame.

Myth#2: The loss of a pet is inconsequential in comparison to the loss of human life and to grieve so profoundly devalues human loss as a whole.

Fact#2: Losing a beloved pet can be just as emotionally significant as losing a close human relationship. They are not mutually exclusive.

Myth#3: To recover from the grief of pet loss you should go out and replace the lost pet with a new one right away.

Fact#3: Each pet relationship is different and simply cannot be "replaced" by another. Before getting a new pet make sure you are ready for a new pet and the bonding process that will take place.

Myth#4: You need to be strong and mourn alone. Don't "bother" other people when it comes to dealing with your sadness.

Fact#4: It is always helpful when you are suffering if you can find someone or some group to help you with your feelings. We are all social creatures and need support.

Myth#5: People tell you that you should "just get over it."

Fact#5: This is typical advice from people who have no idea of how you are suffering from your loss. Try to ignore those people and rely on your own support system.

Myth#6: You are being selfish if you euthanize your pet instead of letting them die naturally.

Fact#6: Euthanasia is a humane way to end the intense suffering of a beloved animal. Prolonging the suffering of an animal in pain is a more selfish act.

Myth#7: To recover from the grief of pet loss you should suppress your grief and not dwell on it.

Fact#7: Grief must be dealt with someway or it will remain unresolved. It need not rule your life but going through the five stages of grief will help you recover from the loss quicker.

Myth#8: The best way to make sure you never have to recover from the grief of pet loss, is to never again have another pet.

Fact#8: This really is no solution since all relationships, including pet and human, come with the eventual probability of loss. None of us are going to live forever yet we must continue to try and build new relationships throughout life.

Myth#9: Children can handle pet loss easily and do not carry the experience over into adult life.

Fact#9: Children can react as strongly as adults can when it comes to pet loss.

Myth#10: It is better to protect children from the truth of the death of their pet.

Fact#10: The truth is always better. Kids have a tendency to blame themselves for a thing they have no control over and they may think it is their fault that their dog "ran away".

Grief from pet loss is real and the aggrieved should be treated with respect and dignity for the suffering they may be experiencing as a consequence. What makes us a good person is to have compassion for other human beings, including empathy for another's suffering even if we find it different then ours.

If you have lost a pet lately or would just like to learn more about how pets are important to our lives please visit: Pet Adoption Rescue and Loss Of A Pet Quotes

Different My Pillow Pets Lion Options

When you are picking from different types of stuffed animals, you like to have some options. The My Pillow Pets options can be limited, sometimes making very difficult to pick the perfect stuffed animal. Luckily with the My Pillow Pets Cowardly Lion, you are going to have more than one option, making easier to ensure you get the right stuffed animal for the youngster you wanted it for. Stuffed lions are a lot of fun, and Cowardly Lion did a nice job capturing those fun elements. Here is a list of your choices, and reasons why they have become so popular.

The first option you are going to have with this toy is picking the biggest size, which would be the My Pillow Pets Lion 18" item. This great stuffed animal is big, but very cuddly and soft. Children love having toys that are big and size, and this one certainly fits that bill. The other option you are going to have is smaller, but also a great looking product. That would be the My Pillow Pets Lion 11" item. This item is very popular with children who are around the age of three because it can be carried much easier, and is easier for them to play with. The smaller item also makes a very good travel companion, easily fitting into your car and kid's lap.

Besides the difference in size, the only other difference between these two items would be the cost. The smaller one is going to be a little bit cheaper, which can be a deciding factor when picking between the two. As for the look of both of them, they are the same brown color with the same colored mane, and they both have that smiling face that children really enjoy. They are also both made from the same plush material, which creates a very soft stuffed animal that looks great. Kids will like either option because they look so great, so use your own judgment on which one would be a better fit for your child.

These products are a great looking item that many people enjoy. However, some children might not like lions, or some people might just want something different. That is okay, because there are a wide variety of different animals that this company makes. For example, you can even find something like the My Pillow Pets Monkey, which has all the great characteristics other pets do, it is just a different animal. So if you are looking for that perfect gift, do not be afraid to keep on looking at what is available in the My Pillow Pets collection.

And for more information about My Pillow Pets Cowardly Lion, please visit the link provided. Additional information about other great My Pillow Pets including Silly Monkey can be found by clicking on the following link: My Pillow Pets Monkey.

Children And Snakes

If you've ever been to your local pet store then no doubt you've seen a snake or two for sale. Usually they are unhealthy, overly expensive, and not well cared for. Which would make most of us walk away without a second glance, but kids are different. They see a snake and they want the snake. I speak from experience having at one time been "that" kid. Since then I've learned a great deal about snakes in general, especially relating to keeping them as pets.

One common denominator of children and snakes is that they rarely do well together. At least not if you leave the snake in the care of the child. Snakes (and most other reptiles) are entirely unlike any other animal. Their care requirements are exacting, and there's very little margin of error when dealing with them. This isn't to say that children can't have snakes as pets. In fact I highly encourage it, but there are some realities you should consider.

1) You as the parent or guardian will likely become the primary caretaker of the snake. Which isn't at all bad, but let's face it. Kids are impulsive and the snake they just have to have or "I'll die!!!" probably will be yesterdays news before today is done. Not literally, but you get the idea. Just be aware that when most kids promise to always take care of it... well consider that just like when they promise to eat their vegetables, or do their homework. Their intentions are great but then the reality sets in.

2) Snakes are expensive. The initial purchase for something like a Ball Python will be relatively cheap (around $40-$100) but then you have everything else.

a) Tank - These can easily run over $150.00 but if you're willing to spend some time learning you can build your own from a plastic Tub for about $8.00

b) Essentials - These are the things you must have for the snake to prosper:

- Heating Pads: Under the tank heater will cost about $20-$35.00 depending on size and where you get it. There is also FlexWatt heat tape which is a little less expensive, but more labor intensive.

- Hides: Just a place for the snake to "hide" from everything. You can buy them at the pet store for a few dollars each or take an old butter tub, cut a hole in the side the snake can fit through and use that. Not a huge expense but the little things add up.

- Thermometer/Hygrometer combo: You want a digital one of these with probes. Those will run you around $12 to $15 for an Accu-rite from Wal-Mart. The cheap stick on the side of the tank types do NOT work. Remember I said before their husbandry requirements are exact? This is an example. To low heat can lead to respiratory infection, poor eating, and stress. To low humidty can lead to poor and incomplete sheds. So you will need to invest in a good thermometer/hygrometer setup.

- Water bowl: Needs to be large enough the snake won't tip it over. If you buy at the pet store it'll cost you more than it is worth. Around $15.00 (give or take)

- Substrate: A bag of cypress mulch will cost about $10 to $20. A better option is to use old newspapers for the substrate. I never pay for it because I get old newspapers from restaurants. Avoid glossy and colored prints as these can be toxic to the snake.

- Thermostat: Here we come back to the reality of how exacting conditions must be for snakes. The temperatures need to be maintained at very precise levels. That is where a thermostat comes in. To be clear these aren't the $20.00 wall mount units you get from Wal-Mart. These are specially made for reptiles and they allow you to control your under the tank heaters. Expect to pay upwards of $100.00 for one of these.

- Electricity: Obviously keeping a heating pad running 24/7 which you will have to do will increase your electric bill to some extent.

- Food: They need to eat. Expect to spend about $8 to $25 per month on food per snake. A lot will depend on how large the snake is as to what it should be eating. Don't forget to calculate travel into the food expense.

So now that snake that cost $40.00 is costing signficantly more. Before you even get out the door you're looking at another $200.00 in supplies alone. Not to mention the ongoing cost of upkeep on a daily basis. We didn't even consider what would happen if trip to the vet became necessary. Vets that specialize in reptiles have one thing in common with doctors who specialize in heart issues. They both charge significantly more than "regular" vets because of their specialization.

3) Kids are rough. You can't leave a child and a snake alone. Some people will tell you it is to protect the kid, but in 99.999999% of all cases the reason is to protect the snake from the kid.

4) Kids are quick. Snakes don't like quick. They feel threatened by it. They'll try to get away and barring that lash out at things they feel threatened by. Having experienced my share of snake bites over the years I can tell you that getting bit by a snake is something most adults will never forget. Imagine a kid getting bit because the snake felt like it had to defend itself.

All of this is not to discourage you from getting a snake for your kid. In fact I highly encourage you doing just that as they make wonderful pets. You as the parent/guardian just need to be aware that snakes are unlike any common pet most people have and they take dedication and responsibility that MOST children simply do not have.

You can learn more about snakes at my blog, http://www.pet-snakes.com

Six Points to Consider When Choosing a Pet For Your Child

"Can I have a pet for my birthday, Mum?" says Amelia

"Not yet, you're too young" replied Mum

This was a common question for several years until one day Mum thought that Amelia is ten now and might be ready for the responsibility of owning and looking after a pet.

So what is the best pet for Amelia?

How can Mum help her make this important choice?

Here are six points to consider when choosing a pet for your child eg Amelia

1. Ask " What kind of pet do you like?"

It may be a duck to a dinosaur.

You need to set limits as to what pets you are prepared to have, what pets you are able to have eg if you live in an apartment then no Great Danes are allowed and what pets are safe for you to have. Write down the choices.

2.Level of Commitment:

Think about what level of commitment Amelia has shown in past projects, like a sport or a hobby.

- was she keen at first and then slack off?

- did she wear her skates once and leave them lying around?

- does her floor look like a jungle?

- what is her staying power at things like?

You have more pet choices if she is a dedicated person. And her interest should be long enough to see the pet into middle age.

3. What is the 'ick' factor?

Is Amelia squeamish at the thought of little gerbil goodies left in the palm of the hand, pet vomit or fussy at the thought of feeding the animal that she mistakenly chose? If so then the pet needs to be a cleaner variety and less hands on - nice tropical fish are great for finicky children.

4. Activity Level:

Is Amelia active or more laid back? This is something to consider because trying to get your inactive child to walk a dog is very stressful or giving tropical fish to an energetic person is totally pointless when they could be running a more active pet.

5. Temperament:

The saying that 'opposites attract" could be beneficial. If Amelia was shy then a bouncy Boxer may help to break her out of her shell. or if Amelia can't stay still then a gentle pug might calm her down.

6. Responsibility:

Who is responsible for this pet? Make sure everyone in the family is aware of this. Even though Amelia asked for a pet she is not totally responsible - it becomes at least partial responsibility of other family members who may, for example, feed the cat or walk the dog from time to time. It is important to make sure Amelia understands the rules and obligations that will be expected of her before bringing a pet home. You can make it clearer with pictures for younger children but Amelia is old enough to get clear worded directions. You can give out rewards and punishments for meeting obligations or not, e.g. if she does not feed the cat then she will loose television watching time.If Amelia is taught responsibility now then she'll turn out to be a responsible adult.

Sometimes Amelia may forget certain things in cat care or is sick, have extra school work or extra curricular activities and so it may be time for you or another family member to step in. If you are not prepared to do this then you may need to reconsider getting a pet at this time.

The idea about choosing a pet for your child, in this case Amelia, is to give them (or Amelia) the options according to what you want, what you can have with considerations of responsibility and their (or her) personality. Then let them (or her) have their (or her) say at what they (or she) wants. Hopefully a suitable choice can be made which can not only give the family a pet but your child or children (or Amelia) a friend forever.

The Final Outcome of Choosing a Pet for Your Child

Let's take the example of Amelia.

Amelia is a bright and bubbly girl who loves being active with sport like netball and swimming plus enjoying quiet times with reading and drawing. She also likes socialising with her friends. Her room can get a little messy but it's because she gets carried away with her interests.She doesn't mind the thought of cleaning up animal messes and decided she would like to have a young pet like a puppy or kitten to grow up with.

Her parents thought that she would show responsibility towards caring for a puppy or kitten as well as having the right personality. There limiting factor was a small house and back yard. So they all decided that a kitten would be a great pet for Amelia.

So what next in the process of choosing a pet for your child.

1. Finding A Pet For you child. In this case a kitten for Amelia

2. Training Your Pet In this case training a Amelia's kitten.

Pets - What to Do When Your Child Loses Their Best Friend

Children and pets seem to go together like peanut butter and jelly. Sometimes they grow up together, but normally there's a special bond between them that's similar to what a child feels for their parent or grandparents. When a pet dies, it's important to realize that your child is in pain. Here are some things you can do when your child loses their best friend.

* Children need to understand that most animals have a shorter lifespan than humans. It's important when your child gets a pet to teach them as much as you can about that type of animal, including what their average lifespan is. When the inevitable day comes, you can remind your child that their pet lived a long and happy life because they were a part of your child's life.

* Let your child know that their pet's death is not their fault. Reassure your child that they were not responsible for the death, that the animal was older and its heart stopped beating. There wasn't anything they could have done to change matters.

* When a loved person dies we honor them with a funeral. It might be a good idea to have something similar for much-loved pet. Have your family gather together and remember the good things about the pet. Let the child plan the service to commemorate their pet how they think is best.

* Put together a photo album with various pictures of your child's pet. This will give them something to look at to help them remember their pet when they start missing it. Your child may even want to write a short story or poem to include in their photo album to express how they felt about their animal.

* Make a special gift to help other animals, such as a gift to the ASPCA in the name of your pet. By doing this, your child can feel good about doing something that will help other animals find loving homes to live in.

* Allow your child time to grieve. Don't tell them that it's silly to cry, in fact be honest about how you feel about the loss. It will help your child learn to grieve if they see you do it, too.

* Encourage them to talk about how they feel. Tell them it's OK if they don't want to talk about it right after the pet dies, but that you're available to listen if they do want to talk.

* Wait until your child has had a chance to grieve before buying them a new pet. A new pet can't replace their old one, but it may help ease the pain somewhat. Again, teach your child about the pet and how long it is expected to live. They may have to go through the process of losing a pet again, but there is a lot of love they can enjoy in the meantime.

Losing a pet is never easy because they give us so much unconditional love. How children react to the death of a pet will help them deal with the death of a human loved one in the future. These tips for helping your child when they lose their best friend may give you the information you need to make the process easier for them.

If you enjoyed this article, please visit the The Parenting Magazine for more. The Parenting Magazine is a popular online publication providing useful parenting information on pets for kids, infant care, child care, child safety, child education, child development, child behavior problems, kids activities and even great food recipes for kids!

Different My Pillow Pets Bumble Bee Options

My Pillow Pets have really done a nice job finding a niche in the stuffed animal market, and My Pillow Pets Buzzy Bumble Bee has become one of the more popular choices for parents and children. As you can tell by the name these unique stuffed animals have the ability to be both a pillow and a stuffed animal, making them the perfect cuddly option for young children. They also look fantastic with a great black and yellow color scheme, a smiling face, and big black antennas. Even better is the fact that parents have some great options to pick from when they are interested in this product.

The most popular option has always been the biggest option, which makes sense since kids love big stuffed animals. In this case that would be the My Pillow Pets Bumble Bee 18" item. The look of this item is great and we all know that big stuffed animals are popular with children. This is also handy because when the stuffed animal becomes a pillow, kids have a lot of room to rest their head.

The other option that is very popular just not as much as the eighteen inch version, would be the My Pillow Pets Bumble Bee 11" toy. This item is particularly popular with smaller children because it is smaller making it much easier for them to take it to different places and to play with in general. This item is going to be made from the same materials as the larger one and is going to have the same identical characteristics, except for the fact that it is smaller and a little bit cheaper in price.

While not common with the other types of stuffed animals this company produces, you are going to have the option of picking the My Pillow Pets Buzzy Bumble Bee Backpack. This is a fun item because it does have the same great black and yellow color pattern, smiling face, and black antennas you see on the pets. It also made from a soft material and is perfect for young kids to take to school, or for them to take with them when traveling. No matter what the situation all of these products are going to be popular with kids.

With all of these great options to pick from you should be able to find one that suits your needs. Stuffed animals have always been a popular gift idea, and it is easy to see why this specific brand of toys is also becoming a very popular option. If you need a great gift idea for someone special you know, this is a fantastic place to start.

And for more information about My Pillow Pets Bumble bee, please visit the link provided. Additional information about all sorts of different My Pillow Pets can be found by clicking on the following link: My Pillow Pets Lady Bug.

Having A Safe Holiday With Your Pet

Isn't it wonderful to put up a beautiful tree, decorate it with ornaments, lights, and tinsel? Isn't it fun to place gifts under the tree and watch the pile grow as Christmas day draws near? Of course it is, but it's as equally interesting to your pet. Now there are new smells, more fun toys and, oh boy, packages that can be played with for hours! Unfortunately, many of the new "toys" can be hazardous to your pet.

The Christmas Tree

If you have an unusually curious pet, it is best to gate them in a safe area away from the tree if you are not there to supervise. A curious cat or dog can easily bring the tree down with a few jumps or pulls on a branch and you will not only have a mess to clean up but your pet may end up being cut by broken ornaments or even receive an electric shock from the string of lights. Some pets may even chew on the tinsel or ornaments which can lead to gastric problems or even death from toxicity. Even a small tree on top of a table can prove to be harmful to a cat that likes to jump up and play around with the tree. Supervising your pet during this holiday season will ensure a happy one.

Cookies, Candy, and Chocolate

Who doesn't love giving and receiving goodies during this season? I remember our neighbor, every year, would give our family a box of Russell Stoffer chocolates and my mom would place the box under the tree. That is a huge mistake for pet owners. Chocolate is especially toxic to dogs and cats when eaten in large quantities. If your pet gets the Stoffers while you are out, he may consume more than he can handle and you'll have either a very sick pet upon your return, or he may possibly die. If you find yourself facing this situation, call the vet immediately. Cookies and candy are not the healthiest items for humans to eat, but imagine an animal that is about 1/10th your size. One cookie to him is like you eating a dozen. It is especially important to remember this if you have a child that "loves" to feed the family pet whatever he/she has not eaten. Dogs love to follow children around because they can snatch food out of their hands rather quickly and enjoy a "stolen" treat. Always be mindful of the goodies.

Friends and Family

During this season friends and family come to visit for holiday parties, dinners, and to deliver gifts. If you know you are going to have a group of people over, make a "safe" place in the house for your pet. By removing the pet from the party area, you can be assured that he will not be fed something he shouldn't have, nor will you need to worry about a possible "biting" incident. If you have a crate, set it up in a room that your pet is comfortable being in, and place him in there during the party. He will probably curl up and go to sleep. If you do let your pet wonder, cordially request that your guests not feed your pet. There is nothing wrong with giving some basic rules on how to handle the family pet and your guests will respect you and be more at ease around your pet when they know your expectations. Little children and pets are like magnets and can also be a poor combination. A simple yank of the tail or ear and the pet may scratch or bite. Again, if you know there are going to be small children and you can not properly supervise your pet with the child, remove the pet to a safe, quiet area. Always remember that you are the owner and you need to set the stage for a happy holiday for your pet.

I do recommend the Critter Cord which can be purchased through Amazon.com. It's not only great to use during the holiday season, but year round as well.

Beth has been a dog enthusiast for years and enjoys researching and studying canine health [http://www.hope-for-dogs.blogspot.com] and related issues.

When Children and Pets Collide

The curiosity of a child is something to cherish. It develops imagination and intuition and develops the learning ability of our littlest members of society. Unfortunately, this curiosity is not always a good thing. When children become curious about learning more about animals, tragic accidents can sometimes occur. Not every pet is sweet and not every owner is responsible. That is why it is important to know what the common pet-related accidents that happen to children are as well as what the common methods for treating the wounds are.

Common Accidents Involving Children and Pets

Although there are many instances where children can interact with pets and animals in a friendly and fun way, there are occasional disputes that can easily result in an injured kid. While the list of possible injuries stemming from interaction with a misbehaving pet is varied, there are quite a few injuries that are more likely to occur from a pet-related accident. These include:

· Scratches

· Bites

· Bruises

· Illness and disease infection

These injuries can vary significantly in severity and depend mostly on the condition and aggressiveness of the pet and the location of the injury.

Treatment for Animal Attacks

Each of the previously mentioned injuries, although they will vary in seriousness, can be treated in certain ways. These include:

· Scratches: Most scratches can be treated with a soap and water cleansing, but if the bleeding does not stop or the wound looks infected it is important to seek medical attention.

· Bites: Animal bites can be very serious. They infect easily and have the potential to spread disease. If you child has been bit by an animal you should clean the wound thoroughly and check for infection regularly. If you suspect the animal may have been ill or carrying a disease, it is important to seek medical attention for assistance.

· Bruises: There is little that can be done to treat bruises, but ice will help ease the child's pain.

· Illness and disease infection: As mentioned above in the "bites" section, animals are capable of severely infecting your child with a range of illnesses, such as rabies. It is important to analyze the animal which injured your child to assess whether or not your child was exposed to a potentially harmful disease. If so, you should schedule a doctor's visit immediately.

For More Information

It is truly heartbreaking whenever a child is harmed in an accident. By knowing what can happen and what steps to take it is possible to not only prevent accidents, but also be prepared should they occur. For more information on accident prevention or personal injury law, visit http://jacksonville-accidentattorney.com today.

Joseph Devine

My Pillow Pets Patriotic Pup Options

Traditional stuffed animals are a nice product, but they can become a little plain, and a little bit boring over time, especially for children that want to have something a little bit new and exciting. I think that is a big reason why the My Pillow Pets Product line has become so popular. Unique choices like the My Pillow Pets Patriotic Pup have really turned some heads. The unique usages and color schemes are a lot of fun, and the great selection of items has really made a lot of people excited about these toys.

Most people like being able to pick from a wide selection of choices. Unfortunately with the My Pillow Pets Patriotic Puppy, you are going to have a limited number of items to choose from. The most popular option you have would be the My Pillow Pets Patriotic Dog 18" version. This full sized version is the largest size that this company makes products in, and is really enjoyable for children. They love being able to hold and snuggle with a big stuffed animal, and they love being able to change them into a very big pillow.

The other option that you can pick from would be the My Pillow Pets Patriotic Pup 11" item. This fun stuffed animal is going to have the same color scheme and fabrics that the bigger one does. The only difference is going to be how big it is, and how much it costs. It is not uncommon for younger children to decide they want the smaller one because it is easier to carry around and play with for children around the age of three. It is also an easier animal to take with on trips, which can play a big role in deciding on which item you would like to have.

I know some parents are going to be worried that the patriotic pup might not be what they are looking for from this company. That is okay, because if you are looking for a different type of dog, they do have a more traditional looking pet, and that would be the My Pillow Pets Snuggly Puppy, or the My Pillow Pets Dog. This is still made with great materials and colors, but it looks much more like a traditional dog than the patriotic dog. You are even going to have more and unique animals to choose from if you do not feel like a dog is something you would like.

If you are looking for a popular gift that is unique, this is a great choice for birthdays, Christmas, or any special occasion. Plus with all of the great options you can choose from, as well as all of the great features that these toys posses, you can see how they have already become a great gift idea.

And for more information about My Pillow Pets Patriotic Pup, please visit the link provided. Additional information about other great stuffed animal dogs can be found by clicking on the following link: My Pillow Pets Dog.

Is a Ferret a Good Pet For Children?

For years there have been rumors of ferrets attacking babies and as such the question of whether ferrets make good pets for families with children must be asked. The most important distinction to make is this - ferrets can make good pets for families with children, but ferrets do not make a good pet for children as the primary caretakers. Why is this? Ferrets need more than the minimal investment of one's time - including attention, supervision, and training otherwise it is entirely likely problems will arise - your ferret may become ill or injured if allowed to run around your home eating everything and anything (and sneaking into forgotten spaces,) if not cleaned regularly your ferret's cage make become very odorous, and if not properly trained ferrets can fall into patterns of poor behavior.

When it comes to children handling ferrets, just like with any other pet, adult supervision is key. Children will not inherently know when it is okay to handle a ferret and when its not, nor will they know the best way to hold a ferret so he or she feels safe and comfortable. These are skills that you the parent must teach.

Children may also not be fully prepared for your ferret's personality. Many ferrets move quickly, jump around, and play roughly. This can frighten very young children. Likewise, many ferrets do not like being around children as they can act in unexpected way and make loud noises.

So are the stories of ferrets attacking babies true? Its hard to say as most stories are hard to confirm. What we do know is that every year many children are seriously injured by dogs and cats - yet no one questions the safety of these animals as household pets. The message here is that when responsible parenting meets responsible pet ownership - most accidents can be avoided entirely.

Melisa has been an avid animal lover her entire life. These days, she is currently enjoying everything ferret! For more great information on problems with ferrets visit Ferrets-Made-Easy.com!

Pet Suggestions For Your Little Ones

Whatever type of pet you choose for you home, make sure that your child is ready for it. Consider the age of your child and the kind of pet you will allow into your home. Children love pets and there are not many children who do not like pets. Here are a few to consider having as your very own.

Hermit crabs are always a favorite among children. They are very easy to take care of and do not produce any mess. They are good company keepers for kids and they do grow into bigger shells, and can be left to crawl around on their own.

A hamster on the other hand requires a little more care and attention. They need fresh food and water every day and their cage cleaned at least once a week. Parents should be aware of the fact that hamsters are nocturnal in nature.

What this means is that they are night time creatures and will want to be up and playing with your kids when they are supposed to be in bed sleeping.

Dogs and cats are the more common pets and tend to become part of families and require just as much care and attention. They can be fairly easy to take care of with the proper house training.

These pets require regular bathing and grooming and must be fed several times during the day especially when they are young. Shedding can also be a problem. Parents should be aware that it will take many hours of hard work to get that new puppy trained.

One could consider training classes for their puppies as this will reduce their workload and take much of the guess work out of the process of training. Cats need similar care but less on the training needs.

Fish and reptiles are good pets to have but they do not offer companionship. When you are choosing a pet make sure that you take into consideration your child's personality and temperament as many pets require love and affection. Also you will want to choose a pet that teaches your child responsibility.

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How Keeping a Pet Teaches Children Values

Teaching children values such as respect, manners and hard work are elements that can last a lifetime and also help a child develop into a well rounded and successful adult. Keeping a pet in particular, allows parents to teach the importance of responsibility to their offspring. Introducing a dog or cat to the family is an aspect that everyone can enjoy proving learning morals and values can be fun as well as educational.

Small animals in particular make great starter pets. Rabbits and hamsters are not only easy to hold and pick up but are great with kids if introduced to them from an early age. Getting kids to take on the role of feeding or cleaning out the rabbit hutch or hamster cage is an ideal way to teach responsibility. Explaining to the child that the pet relies on the them to put in fresh bedding or water allows the child to understand that he or she is responsible for the pet's welfare and happiness. Paralleling the child's role to the pet as similar to that of a parent is a good way to encourage caring and nurturing behaviour between child and pet.

Larger pets such as dogs are an ideal way for parents to encourage good time keeping amongst youngsters. Older children, say from the age of 12 and up, can be encouraged to take the dog for a walk at a certain time everyday. While having a set occurrence in their day allows youngsters to develop their time keeping skills around this element of their day, it's also a great way for younger children to get used to a daily routine. If each morning involves going for a walk with a parent and the dog, the child can knows what to expect from that part of their day. Following a daily routine has been shown to help children relax and remain more focused later on in life.

Finally, owning a pet is another means to teach the value of organisation. Getting your child to take note of when pet supplies such as sawdust, kibble and treats are needed to be bought in shows your child is learning not only be responsible for the pet but also organising the upkeep of its welfare. Teaching a child organisation from a early age is important for a manageable and maintained adult life that will see your youngster meet deadlines on time, keep on top of their finances and arrange vital and important documents such as life insurance later on in life.

Harvey McEwan writes about the family and social issues.

Turtles As Pets

Turtles as pets are simply fascinating not only for children but for adults too. Keeping turtles are not as time consuming and as expensive as keeping dogs or cats but turtles do need certain degree of care to keep them from dying and to be cared for. You definitely need to care for them and see to their proper diet and living conditions.

Turtle is an animal which if cared properly will live for a couple of decade. The main problems which generally come up is that when you buy a baby turtle is, it is very small but as it grows it becomes bigger in size around, 10 to 12 inches. Thus for keeping turtles you need a fairly big area if it is to be kept comfortably. Though turtles are loved by children and make lovely pets you must give a thought to the available area you have before keeping turtles as a pet.

To keep turtles for pets it is advisable to create a natural surrounding for them. They should be given a fairly large area as they move around a lot. There should be a water tank and dry land both as turtle stay in both places. The water temperature should be maintained along with the temperature of the surroundings. You should put bulbs especially made for reptiles which produce UVA and UVB lights. These lights are required for their good health. The water tank needs to be filled to at least 40 gallon water and space for the turtle to swim about.

Having turtles as pets certainly does not mean that it can be taken out of its pen to play with by your children. The sudden difference in temperature can harm turtle. Also they hibernate in winters and to extend the longevity of your pet it should be allowed to do so without botheration.

To keep turtles for pets you must take care of its special food habits. They are generally given fish, crickets, snails or bananas but the turtle food may vary from one variety to another. It has been seen that turtles are messy eaters. There is lot of uneaten food after the turtle feeds itself. These food articles may catch mold and contaminate the area if not removed regularly. Thus it is advised to remove uneaten food from the water and surrounding areas. A filtration unit will be useful when you will need to cleanup the water.

Keeping turtles though not a difficult job, one has to take certain care. You should always wash your hand before and after handling the turtle as the turtle can catch infection from humans and in the same way children may catch salmonella disease if care is not taken. Moreover turtles are intelligent creature so when you have turtles for pets you have to see that your turtle is kept happy so that you can enjoy looking after it.

To keep turtles as pets one should provide them with proper environment with correct diet. Give your pet lot of attention because turtles love it and it will be a lovely friend for you and your family.

Paul Bryan operates Turtles as Pets - A site providing the best guide on caring for a pet turtle to help your pet live a longer, healthier life.

Different Themes for Children Parties

The best part about children parties is that usually they are based on themes, which make it more fun and entertaining, but it is not at all an easy task to carry out. The most famous children party themes are usually from Disney cartoons, but a little bit creativity can actually introduce different and unique ideas, which can make your child extremely happy.

First, you should try to keep the party theme keeping in mind the favourite cartoon character of your child. Many girls would like to go for princesses theme whereas boys like super heroes. Some classic themes have been the all time favourite for children for ages now, and no matter what happens, children would love to have one theme repeatedly if it is bases on their favourite cartoon character.

Colours are another perfect children party theme. You can set a colour and arrange accordingly. For this, you will have to make sure that everything is in accordance with the colour you have set, and this includes the colour of cake, decorations, and the party dresses of the hosts. Girls would love pink colour as their party theme, whereas boys mostly go for blue.

Costume parties are loved by everyone; if you cannot come up with a unique idea, then this would be a perfect theme. Kids love to dress up like their favourite characters and this will be a perfect excuse for them to get dressed as their favourite character and act the way their favourite characters do.

A movie night would also be a good option if you want to keep the children fully occupied. Vote for the best movie, or you can show them the latest movie, which no one has seen yet. Make sure that the children coming to your the party of your child have taken the consent of their parents on watching a movie, as some parents do not want their kids to watch anything, which they have not seen yet.

Celebrating the new season would be a great theme, as children love pool parties in the summers, and camping in winters. If you want to do something unique and unusual, then this could be a great idea. Just make sure if you are opting for such parties, then you should inform the children well before, so that they come prepared accordingly.

Pet party is for all those children who love keeping pets and actually have pets at home. The children can bring their pets, or can even get dressed up, as their favourite pet. Make sure that you have enough space to cater for the children, and their pets as well.

In short, creativity is the basic tool for arranging theme-based parties for kids. Ask your child that what does he/she actually wants. Do not just decide upon a theme yourself, as it might not be the favourite theme of your child, and can spoil the mood of children. Try unique ideas, rather than sticking to old ones, and strictly follow the theme, which you have set.

Why not use a cinema for Childrens parties, entertainment, food and drinkgs can all be provided. For a huge selection of Conference centres around the entire UK.

Guinea Pigs: A Great First Pet

The sight of a guinea pig nosing around in a pile of fresh shavings is an image that brings a smile to both parents and children alike.

A large population of adults have fond memories of the guinea pig they raised as a child. It doesn't take a lot of encouragement before they are describing the way it looked and recounting the adventures they shared. Most parents who had these pets during their childhood are normally quick to make sure that their children have one of these animals to call their own.

Parents like the idea of guinea pigs as a child's first pet for a variety of reasons. Compared to cats and dogs, these friendly rodents are a cheap pet to maintain. Even rescuing a kitten from an animal shelter can cost more than fifty dollars. However, a young, well-cared for guinea pig can be purchased for around fifteen dollars. The average guinea pig doesn't need as much veterinary care as a dog or cat. These pets can be kept in the child's bedroom, lessening the impact on your furniture and shoes. In short, these cute creatures are a smart choice to teach a child about the responsibility needed to care for a pet.

One of the skills that children will develop when they are raising a rodent is pet grooming. Despite their diminutive size, these creatures, like dogs and cats, need to be groomed on a regular basis. Parents who are concerned that their child will be lax about grooming their pet should make sure that they purchase a short haired breed. The short hair will not tangle and mat like their long haired counterparts. Brushes that have soft bristles are the best for brushing guinea pigs, the soft bristles won't hurt his or her skin.

When your new pet comes home, teach your child how to examine its eyes, ears and nose, to make sure that they are clean and free of debris. Show them how to use a warm slightly wet washcloth to gently wipe any mucus that might be accumulating in the corners of their eyes.

Guinea pigs don't require a great deal of of brushing, and they shouldn't be bathed. They do need to have their nails clipped. This is an activity that the parent needs to supervise. Explain to your child that they are not supposed to remove the entire nail, that the only thing that is going to be removed with the nail clippers is the sharp tip of the nail. On a pet that has white nails you should be able to see the tiny blood vessels that run through the nails, explain to your child that the blood vessels represent a living part of the nail, that the goal is to trim the nail with hurting the tiny blood vessels. If your pet has dark nails, your probably won't be able to see the blood vessels. On dark nailed breeds, the rule of thumb is to trim approximately 1/4 of an inch of the nail.

The biggest problem with these rodent pals is that they can smell quite offensive if the cage environment is not cleaned regularly. The scent of an unclean guinea pig cage can quickly drive the entire family from the house. It is important to make sure that your child understands that it is extremely important to clean his or her pet's cage on a regular basis. Explain that the health of their pet as well as the family harmony depends on them keeping the cage clean and the bedding fresh.

Jonathan Hook own Bow Meow Pet Care Centre in North Bay, Ontario. Much more information about dog care and general pet care is available at www.BowMeowNorthBay.ca

My Pillow Pets Cowardly Lion Review

There are so many children's books, movies, cartoons, and stories that all have lions playing a big role in them. Plus when you take a kid to the zoo, one of the first animals they want to see is the lions. Lions are very popular with children, and because of that, lion stuffed animals are becoming a very popular toy. One company that is doing a great job of capitalizing on this popularity would be My Pillow Pets. There stuffed animal version of the lion is called the My Pillow Pets Cowardly Lion, and it has become a very popular item for kids. There are a lot of reasons why this toy is so successful, and here is a list of a few of them.

The first thing people look at when they are deciding on if they should purchase an item or not, is going to be how good that stuffed animal looks. In the case of this item, you are going to be getting a fantastic looking stuffed animal. In this case you are getting a lion that has a brown body, a hairy little brown tail, and a nice brownish colored mane. It has a little white face with a big black nose, and a nice looking smile. It is not a scary looking lion by any means, but a kid friendly, and great looking stuffed animal.

Besides the great look you get from this product, you will also be happy to know that it is a very durable stuffed animal, and it is even machine washable on a gentle cycle. With how dirty kids always get their favorite toys, it is nice to know cleaning it up is simple. These items are recommended for children ages three and up, so that is always important to remember when you are purchasing a gift. With a couple of great choices, and very reasonable costs, this item has become very popular.

The entire pillow pet concept has made stuffed animals very popular again. Kids love the ability to have both a pillow and a stuffed animal, and all you have to do is undo or redo some Velcro to switch forms. This simplicity has made young children love this item. When you combine that with the fact the cost is fantastic and the animal looks so great, you can see why so many people have decided this is the perfect gift for children.

And for more information about My Pillow Pets Cowardly Lion, please visit the link provided. Additional information about other great My Pillow Pets including Silly Monkey can be found by clicking on the following link: My Pillow Pets Monkey.

Pillow Pets Review - Everything You Need to Know

If you are looking for a Christmas toy idea, then this article has something to share with you. Basically, I will talk about 3 things-what is My Pillow Pets, why it is one of the demanded toys, and 3 examples of pillow pets. After reading this article, you will learn the benefits your children can enjoy when having this cool product!

This product by AsSeenonTV are stuff toy animals that have an innovative concept design. They come in numerous designs and animal representations. You might be asking the question right now, "How come a stuff toy become a pillow?" Simple! Every Pillow Pet can be fold out to make it a pillow. How? It uses a Velcro that keeps its shape and when the time your kid will rest or sleep, he can undo the Velcro to make it flip out to become a pillow.

Pillow Pets have been in-demand for many years. This year, it is noted as one of the best Christmas toy. They are fabricated with a very soft material that your kids will surely love to use when resting.

There are many various pet animals to choose from. The collection is growing daily! Listed below are 3 samples of the kinds of models you can buy:

Triceratops

Should you be looking for a pillow that is more distinctive from the Pillows selection, then the Triceratops is an ideal product for you. This kind of product is one thing which children will always love, because children like adorable animals, it could be Triceratops dinosaur.

T-Rex

There are new additions to the selection of My Pillow Pets. One of the additions is the T-Rex. One such addition would have to be the T-Rex. It is still manufactured from the best plush materials that always make users pleased. This has a good appearance and amazing features that continually made it very trendy.

Pterodactyl

This is an excellent product. It is very entertaining and unique, that you would certainly anticipate from any kind Pillows. This particular product is an excellent purchase, and a thing that children will surely love. The good appearance of this item along with the special attributes that this product have makes it an absolute must have product for all kids.

One thing regarding My Pillow Pets is you can purchase a lot of them, if your kids desires to collect many, or you just choose the pet that is great for them. The Pillows can also be bought in different sizes to be able to complement different age brackets.

If you are thinking about giving your child or toddler a unique toy this year you should consider get pillow pet. They will love it!

Find out more information about pillow pet reviews, and availability pillowpetdeal.com

Electronic Pets Are A Great Gift For Your Child

Have your kids been consistently begging and pleading for a pet? Do they want a puppy or a kitty or perhaps even something more exotic like lizards or snakes? Live pets are a really big responsibility. They must have food, water, shelter, exercise, and not to mention, love and nurturing.

Parents may be reluctant to buy young children pets since they may not be responsible enough to be caretakers. Parents often become the primary caretakers of the live pets once the newness has worn off. Additionally, some children may live in a building or home where pets are not allowed.

Allergies may even prevent some children from becoming pet owners. Moms and Dads everywhere in search of an alternative have never been in such a fortunate position. Advances in technology and ingenuity have led to major strides in the development of electronic pets.

While they are not the real thing, these toy pets could aid in filling a gap and serving a need for a child to provide loving care and bond with a special friend. Electronic pets provide kids with an opportunity to own dogs, cats, hamsters, and even more exotic animals like a chimpanzee or a lion.

Of all the toymakers out there that produce electronic pets, Habro has quite an extensive line. FurReal Friends by Hasbro not only has several different types of puppies and kittens, they also have a parrot, a panda, a raccoon, and a chipmunk.

Your child can even have her very own pony that moves and reacts to her. Several of these interactive electronic pets come mature or in the newborn variety. The newborn pets come with bottles and are perfect for your child to cuddle and really care for. Many of these pets look and sound incredibly realistic. Your child will cherish a ForReal pet to call her own.

Other very popular toy pets are the little electronic hamsters known as Zhu Zhu Pets. Live hamsters are not only be pretty messy and smelly, they can also be quite fragile. With the highly adaptable Zhu Zhu Pets, there is no risk of unintended harm to your pet. These furry friends come in such a wide selection of pets and accessories for boys and girls alike.

Electronic pets can be of great assistance in training your child how to be a caretaker for a live pet someday. Toy kittens and puppies can give parents opportunities to coach kids on how to properly interact with and tend to real pets.

From earlier toys like Furby to newer lines like Kung Zhu Pets, every child can have a pet he loves. Owning a live pet may not be viable for your family. However, with the widespread availability and the colorful variety of electronic pets on the market, every family is sure to find one that they will love.

These pets don't require food or special habitats and there is no risk of them making a mess all over your house. Kids will love them and parents will definitely approve of the electronic pets that you can buy today.

For more information on what is most popular and selling today you should visit our Electronic Pets store for the best choice. If you are looking for a Toy Pet for your kids our site is the one you should visit.