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

The Family Pets When the Family Breaks Up - Legal Advice

When a family splits up through divorce it will usually be money and children which calls arguments. However there may well also be battles over which spouse the family dog, cat or even budgerigar will live with. he family pets are considered members of the family and when the family breaks up questions of residence for the animals and even contact rights can be contentions.

Applications to the Courts are being made where a judge is being asked to rule on who is to have a pet where "custody" is disputed. Although new to the UK, where there is no certain precedent or relevant law, court battles over family pets are well established in the USA. In America the courts have started to follow the principle applicable to children of what is in a pet's best interest. A Virginian court recently decided that a cats happiness took priority over the property rights between the parties.

The courts in the UK will adopt a more traditional approach in which an animal is considered a chattel and matrimonial property just like anything else. Although this may well be good law, pets are not the same as the family car, washing machine or three-piece suite and things become much more emotional. Disputes over animals have been known to predominates and take over from everything else when otherwise an amicable division of the family assets could have been agreed. The family pet is the sticking point, often providing an outlet to vent personal frustrations which might otherwise not have surfaced.

Most cases involving animals are settled before they reach the point of having to be decided by a judge. The costs involved in employing a lawyer for days on end to argue a claim for a favourite pet would be prohibitive. Notwithstanding the question of cost, the best approach, however attached you may be to the animal, remains to try and negotiate an agreement With the law as it is in England and Wales, the best interest of the pet will not be considered and the pet will continue to be treated as the parties personal property. And as any lawyer will tell you, the best way to divide up personal property is with the toss of a coin.

Where there is a pet to whom you are particularly devoted it is always best to discuss what should happen in the event of a breakup and record this in a separation or post nuptial agreement. Above all, always be realistic about the practicalities of keeping a pet if you are going to be by yourself. Think how it will fit in with your living arrangements and working hours. In particular never try to take a pet away from your children. Be open to a compromise agreement with shared care of the pet. Most important, as with children always remain calm around the pet as they can be very sensitive to conflict which may make them frightened or nervous.

Legal advice and help from qualified lawyers is available online from Legal-Zone. In addition to free information on most usual area of law it contains an advice section where qualified and experienced lawyers will advise you on legal problems.and you can also download very reasonably priced legal documents and e-books.

Children and the Death of a Family Pet

Almost two years ago I came home late one night to find our family pet of 13 years had died. She was a beautiful collie/beagle mix whom we adopted from our local Humane Society when she was just ten weeks old. "Shorty" was a lovable, sweet, energetic dog and we were devastated when she passed. My wife and I were able to deal with such a loss on an adult level. But it was our eight year old son who seemed to feel the loss the hardest. I still think back to that moment and the months following trying to think if we handled it properly. I feel there were some things we did right but others we could've done better to help him understand and work through his first time dealing with death.The night of Shorty's passing our son happened to be spending the night at his grandparents. Instead of bringing him home to say goodbye we decided to tell him the next morning. We also thought it would be best to take Shorty to our veterinarian for cremation before sharing the news. The thought being we were protecting our son from seeing our pet in her final state.

We told our son the truth and felt it was important for him to hear the words "died" and "has died". We didn't make believe that Shorty had "just gone up to heaven". He needed to understand what death meant. He reacted somewhat confused and a little upset. It wasn't until we got home that it started to sink in and the questions started. "Will I see her again?" "Why did she have to die?" And for months after he would cry and wish he could see her once more. He only wanted to say goodbye. I now wish we had thought more about it and given him that chance to pet and kiss her one more time. I guess we believed we were protecting him.

Children don't understand the term, "dog years". I think if we had explained to our son how animals age a lot quicker or have a shorter life cycle he may have been able to see how his dog had actually lived a long and happy life. This also may have helped ease some fears that if our family pet could die, so could his parents. He displayed some separation anxiety many months after the death and openly said he was afraid of us dying. Our constant reassurances helped somewhat, but was a long time before his fear faded.

My wife and I made sure to always listen to our son when he was upset or wanted to talk about Shorty. Even many months after, we never belittled his feelings or made him think we no longer cared. It was important for him to see we were just as upset as he was, even if we were also crying. I think if it had been a goldfish the same would apply. Children's attachments to animals can become very strong no matter what kind of pet. We would sometimes have him draw a picture of what he was feeling and it really helped to convey his thoughts. Even to this day when he draws a picture of a family he'll always include a dog.

We decided to have our dog cremated and explained to our son what that meant. He seemed to be happy with the thought that Shorty would still be in the house with us. I think any memorial that is done for a pet needs to include the child/children. This helps them with closure and gives them a real chance to voice their thoughts and say goodbye on a different level. It's not a face to face goodbye but a spiritual wave and acknowledgment that "I'll see you again someday." Whether it's a funeral or cremation it's important to mark the significance of the pet's life and death event. Since we went with cremation we had a little memorial bench made with Shorty's name and a beautiful sentiment carved into it. We put it under a tree and our son sometimes stands in front of it and says "hi" to Shorty.

Our veterinarian suggested a book for our son that told the story of a little boy whose dog died. But he felt better because he believed the dog walked up a rainbow bridge to heaven. It had a big impact on our son who reminds us Shorty is saying "Hi" whenever we see a rainbow.

A year after the passing we tried getting another dog. We quickly found out it wasn't enough time and we regretted having to return the puppy to the pound. Our son was not really ready and while he did say he wanted to get a new dog it was clear very quickly it wouldn't be a good fit. We expected the new dog to exhibit the same behavior as Shorty and already know the rules of the house. Instead we grew frustrated and realized we didn't have the patience for a puppy. Our son relented, but he too knew it wasn't the right time.

The time has to be right and that means the child can talk openly about the passing of his pet. He/she has to show true interest in getting a new one and not just looking at one puppy and saying yes. I think this will have to be a feeling and judgement call on the parents part.

The passing of a family pet is a difficult time for everyone in the family, especially those with children. It's important for the parents to remember that we are on different levels than children when it comes to dealing with death and the grieving process. For most children it's their first time understanding what that means and what their feelings are telling them. It's easy to get caught up in our own grief but helping your son our daughter through the process can be therapeutic and possibly heal our wounds a little faster.

Bruce Aderhold would like to invite you to read more book reviews along with articles of to today's top topics at http://hubpages.com/profile/BKAONE

I hope you have found something of use and thought provoking in my words. I thank you for visiting and reading.

The Healing Power Of Your Family Pet

There are some very good reasons that Americans share their homes with approximately 68 million dogs and 73 million cats and spend about 34 billion dollars a year on their animal companions. Why the love affair with pets? Well, for one reason, there is significant scientific evidence that pets not only help reduce the amount of time we spend at the doctor's office, but they also improve the quality of our lives and increase our longevity! For Baby Boomers and Seniors, in particular this is very good news!

It has long been acknowledged that our pets bring us many gifts and life lessons - friendship, companionship, unconditional love, loyalty, acceptance and forgiveness.

Children, as well as adults and seniors have always shared a special bond with animals. Dogs, cats, horses, birds, among many others, become our brothers, sisters, and best friends. For many older men and women who are widowed, divorced or separated from human family members and friends and who are alone and lonely, these animal companions become their "children" and beloved members of the family.

Older adults trust and confide in their animal companions. A pet supplies security, a safe haven and comfort zone, in which we can let down our guard and truly be ourselves without worrying about how we look or act or appear to others. And an animal companion doesn't judge, blame or criticize us. It loves and accepts us just as we are. It is loyal and empathetic and stays close and supportive during hard times. It is beside our side when we are ill or sad or depressed. The animal is there for us no matter how stressful, difficult or challenging one's life becomes. In addition, for both children and adults and particularly the elderly, pets fill a basic human need to love and nurture.

Family pets also make us feel useful and needed. They encourage us to engage in life more actively as the pet depends upon its family for food, exercise and medical care. They entertain and amuse us - they provide fun and laughter simply by being genuinely who they are. They seem to understand our feelings and attempt to accommodate them. They enable us to have someone nonjudgmental with whom to talk and communicate. They tend to bring us closer together as families as they share so much of our lives with us - day in, day out, holidays, vacation time - even when we're having a meal, reading, talking on the phone, watching television, and so on.

But the benefits of pet ownership do not end here. Animals may serve as a uniting thread in a family that is undergoing significant lifestyle changes. For example, families experiencing Empty Nest or Retirement as their children go off to college or on to marriage and families of their own may experience loneliness, depression, anxiety a sense of loss and purposelessness which the comforting presence of animal companions can decrease or even help eliminate. A pet's presence may help ease these transitions.

There are many physiological as well as psychological benefits associated with pet ownership. The simple act of petting an animal friend has proven to be of significant physical and psychological benefit. His presence has a calming effect. Blood pressure is reduced. Heartbeat is improved. Resistance to disease is heightened and tension is decreased. Our animal companions reduce stress, fear and anger. They also decrease loneliness and depression. As we get older, these pets can also offer us a sense of well being, encouragement, support and friendship. Loving and caring for an animal companion helps us to remain active and stay healthy. They may even provide us with a new purpose in life and a reason for living.

Our animal companions provide us with so many gifts. They serve as our friends, teachers, healers and guides. They teach us patience, loyalty, grace and gratitude. Most importantly, they teach and bring us the most precious gift life has to offer - that of unconditional love.

DIANE POMERANCE Ph.D. is the author of six highly acclaimed books and numerous articles. She is an internationally recognized pet expert who has been interviewed on countless radio and television programs, newspapers and magazines.

The Effects Of Boredom, Loneliness And Separation Anxiety On Your Family Pet

Most pet owners consider their four-legged friends as members of the family. Owners tell funny stories to friends about their pets amusing antics. Some pet owners even celebrate the birthdays of their feline and canine companions. Like other family members, owners cuddle with pets, talk to them, nurse them when they are sick, and punish them when they do things that are against the rules. Yet, while most pets are well-behaved, many owners have come home to find things ripped to shreds by their dog or that their cat soiled a favorite comforter. As much as owners may react harshly by yelling at or otherwise punishing their furry friends, consider the likelihood that these pets are reacting out of boredom, loneliness, and separation anxiety.

The reality is that many pets are subject to boredom, loneliness and separation anxiety just as children are. Although it is difficult to rationalize the destruction of property, pet owners should be careful not to anthropomorphize (to ascribe human characteristics to things not human) pet behavior. It is essential to realize that animals need mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom and loneliness. Pets enjoy the company of their fellow pack animals to alleviate loneliness, for example, and an owners patient and compassionate help in overcoming separation anxiety is critical.

Researchers and veterinarians are not really sure what causes separation anxiety in some pets and not in others. Lately, the theory is that some pets have experienced a traumatic separation experience and/or may be genetically predisposed to anxious behavior. Animals that are separated from their mothers too early, or have been in and out of animal shelters, appear to be prone to anxious behavior. It is easy to understand why these experiences may dispose pets to continuing anxiety about becoming separated from those to whom they have formed attachments. Pets are creatures of habit, just as humans are.

Many dogs know that it's time for a walk when they see owners grab the leash. Cats salivate when tea is made. They react to the sound of the spoon hitting the side of the cup, expecting a dab of milk as a treat. And, most importantly to this discussion, pets know that they will soon be left alone when you begin to wrap up your morning routine and prepare to leave for the day.

You may have noticed that your happy go lucky dog or cool as a cucumber cat become agitated or tense as you brush your teeth or put your shoes on. This agitation becomes near panic as you reach for your keys and grab your coat. And the panic becomes aggravated when you leave the house. Perhaps the tension doesn't begin until you open the closet door and reach for your coat. "How cute," you think, "Rex wants to go outside." Yet, candidly, dogs and cats know the difference between going for a walk and their owners abandoning them for the day. Your pet is asking to go with you; and, when you appear to be ignoring his needs, he becomes anxious at the thought that you are leaving and may never return.

Have you ever returned home to find that the kitchen cabinets have been opened and all of your dried, boxed food has been ripped open and strewn haphazardly on the floor? Even worse than the actual mess, you recall that you put your dog in the crate before you left for work. The door to the crate is still closed; but your pet is sitting in the middle of the living room floor, surrounded by what's left of your shredded wedding photo album, innocently wagging his tail. The neighbors have started complaining that your pet has been barking and howling constantly and your door frames have been chewed to bits.

A pet that suffers from loneliness, separation anxiety or boredom may display only one undesirable behavior. It is just as likely, however, that your pet is reacting only when you are not home. And unfortunately, this behavior is wreaking havoc on your relationship with your beloved pet. Observe your pet for signs of impending trouble as you go about your morning routine. A dog that is exhibiting signs of separation anxiety will often whimper or whine when they sense you may be preparing to leave.

Pacing the floors, shaking or shivering, and even aggressively trying to prevent your departure are not uncommon behaviors when your pet knows your departure is imminent. In fact, some pets have even taken to gnawing at his paws in an effort to alleviate anxiety - much like humans chew their own fingernails. An pet in the throes of extreme anxiety will occasionally injure himself or herself as a result of their behavior. These are extreme cases and need to be taken very seriously and solved immediately. A chewing behavior often extends to objects, doorways, and your pet may even dig and scratch at windows in an effort to find you.

Some animals may become depressed when they feel their humans have abandoned them. Depression in animals often takes the form of anorexia (refusal to eat) or vomiting. If an owner is leaving for the day, and a pet refuses to eat for eight or nine hours, this is not a significant issue. However, if an owner leaves for an extended period of time, say for a vacation or a job that involves traveling for more than a day at a time, a pet may become malnourished and may require medical treatment. Extreme cases may end with the death of your beloved pet. Incessant barking and howling is also common behavior for a dog that feels abandoned.

Cats who suffer from separation anxiety display many of the same behaviors as dogs. Many pet owners are fooled into thinking that cats have no apparent reaction to their comings and goings. However, just because cats are not known to cause major property damage, there is no reason to ignore their suffering, or to believe they are not bothered by your absence. A cat that is suffering from separation anxiety will pace, and often becomes nervous and clingy when an owner is preparing to leave for the day.

A cat suffering from separation anxiety can also display noisy protests to his owners departure. Cats may also urinate or defecate in inappropriate places and scratch doorways and furnishings. While it was thought that cats did not suffer from separation anxiety, the most recent research indicates that cats, like dogs, form strong bonds with humans, and may become anxious and overwhelmed when their masters leave. In fact, like dogs, cats may groom themselves to the point of baldness or sores.

While there is a tendency of a pet within a specific breed to suffer from boredom, loneliness or separation anxiety - often pure bred dogs and cats, mixed breeds suffer from the same emotional afflictions. Dogs and cats are social creatures. When deprived of the security of their natural mother and siblings, a new pet becomes attached to his new human family members. This is normal social animal behavior. Problems arise, however, when the attachment to the human family becomes excessively dependent. The pressing questions are how do we identify this behavior, and, subsequently, correct the resulting problems. Pets that form intense attachments to their masters are the likeliest candidates to suffer from boredom, loneliness or separation anxiety. Pets need to learn that we will be coming back soon and are not abandoning them forever, especially since animals have no real concept of time.

Soon after an owner departs, a pet begins to miss this attention, likely believing that the owner will be gone for a very long time. Those of us with children have learned that playing peek-a-boo teaches children that parents disappear, but return immediately. Animal experts do not suggest that you play peek-a-boo with your pets. They do, however, know that pets need to learn their owners will return. A dog that practically looses his mind with joy upon the return of his owner is likely suffering from separation anxiety. This is not to say that an emotionally healthy pet should ignore you when you walk in the door after a long day; but, he should definitely not act as if they have been deprived of all human contact for the last decade.

The lessons that reassure pets that their masters will return are best begun while they are young. Leaving animals with their biological mother until they are at least eight weeks old can go a long way toward eliminating feelings of separation. If you have a canine or feline companion that is no longer young, and he is not adjusting appropriately to your absences, you will need to put forth the effort to correct the situation yourself. However daunting the task seems, don't lose hope! Regressive behavior that is a result of boredom, loneliness or separation anxiety can usually be remedied at any age. Old dogs can learn new tricks! Old cats, however, can be a different case altogether. Cats that have learned undesirable behavior are difficult to retrain. As a matter of fact, cat owners know full well that the word "train" often does not apply to cats. Cats are often immune to behavior modification. Yet, take heart, change is still possible.

Curiously enough, some pet owners and experts alike swear by the use of punishment to "break" an animal of an undesirable behavior. Although one must wonder why an owner would want a broken companion, the fact is that punishment is often counterproductive. A fostering of trust with any animal is imperative to building a sound relationship. For the purposes of this discussion, punishment is not a recommended course of action to rid your pet of undesirable behavior; and it is certainly not the way to teach your animal to trust that you have not abandoned him. It is important to remember that your pet is not attempting to punish you for abandoning them by gnawing on everything in sight or urinating on the floor. They are merely afraid that you will not return home. The resulting destructive behavior is the product of their fear of isolation.

Providing a pet with the services of a daycare center is an option, but not always feasible, and prohibitively expensive at that. In lieu of a pet sitter, owners should begin their campaign to reform their pet's behavior by never making a big deal out of leaving their pet alone. Although many owners themselves experience separation anxiety, especially when a pet is new to a home, it is important that owners do not reveal guilt for leaving a new pet. The coming and going of pet owners is simply a fact of life, and a pet cannot always come along. The earlier pets come to accept this fact, the better they will fit into the family. Desensitizing your pet is the first step in helping him or her accept that an owner is not available.

Leave your pet for short periods of time and increase to longer periods. Actually leave the house when you do this exercise, as some pets are not easily fooled. When crate training a dog, use the same process. Leave the dog in the crate for short periods of time, gradually building up to longer stretches. Contrary to what some pet owners believe, crates are not cruel devices for dogs. Dogs are den animals. They often prefer the security of feeling like they are in a warm, safe den-like enclosure. Many dogs that have been crate trained are often found relaxing in their wired den with the door open, happily chewing on a bone or taking a nap. Remember, however, that you should never use the crate as a form of punishment. The crate is a safe haven for your dog, not a time-out room and should always retain positive associations. Additionally, upon returning to home or upon removing a pet from the crate, owners should actually ignore their pet for a short while. Remember, your comings and goings are not a big deal. The idea is that there is no cause for alarm or excitement when you depart or arrive.

In extreme cases of separation anxiety, the process of desensitizing a pet will need to be undertaken in very small steps. Using a variation of the process described above, owners of an anxious pet must approach the desensitizing procedure carefully. Approach your morning routine as you normally would, but in small steps that are easy understand.

1 Begin by putting your coat or jacket on, then sit down on the couch. After a minute or two, remove your coat and put it away. Repeat this action until your pet does not become anxious.

2 Next, put your coat on and grab your keys (purse, bag, lunchbox, or whatever else you may take with you when you leave for the day), then sit on the couch again. After a moment, put your keys and coat away. Repeat this action until your pet does not become anxious during this process.

3 When your pet becomes comfortable with what you are doing so far, you can take the process a step further. Put your coat on, grab your keys and then open the door. Close the door, replace your keys and put your coat away. Repeat until your pet becomes comfortable.

4 You will now repeat everything you have previously done, but now you will actually step out of the house (but don't close the door). You will then re-enter the house and reverse your actions. Do this until your pet is comfortable.

5 Then further the process by actually closing the door for a few seconds or so. Re-enter the house, reverse your actions and repeat until your pet accepts these actions also.

6 The final steps in the process involve closing the door and leaving the house for longer periods of time. Once you are able to leave the house for an hour and a half or so, you should be able to leave your pet alone for a work day. (Make sure that you put your favorite shoes in a secure spot - now is not the time to tempt him.)

Take it slowly. Be consistent. The steps detailed above are a guideline. The actual formula that you use should include pieces of your personal getting-ready-to-leave routine. The idea is to teach your pet that there is no cause to worry. Your pet will soon learn that his human pack members have not disappeared off the face of the earth.

In very extreme cases, there are medications that may help; but, they should be only used as a last resort, and only in combination with desensitization training. To use them alone would doom your pet to a lifetime of medication while ignoring the actual root of the separation anxiety problem. Your vet can prescribe medications such as clomipramine (Clomicalm), fluoxetine (Prozac), or buspirone (Buspar) for a cat or dog who is clearly suffering from the effects of separation anxiety. These medications have been used successfully for separation anxiety in pets and are readily available for use.

Research has shown that pets will often display anxious behavior soon after the departure of owners. Experts believe that occupying a pet during the crucial twenty to thirty minute period after initially being left alone will alleviate any undesirable behavior resulting from boredom, loneliness or separation anxiety. Some dog owners have had success with a "kong". A kong is a hollow rubber toy into which the owner slathers peanut butter, cheese or soft dog food. The theory is that the dog will be so occupied with the yummy kong or bone treat that he or she will not even notice that his master has disappeared. And by the time he or she does notice, the period during which separation anxiety often occurs will have passed. Kongs have been known to work great for some pet owners. Others have discovered that the kong is still full of peanut butter when they come home and pets have instead opted to devour other significant household items. Generally, this is the sign of a dog that is not anxious, but is instead bored and/or lonely.

Providing your cat and dog with appropriate playthings can ensure comfort and entertainment when you are not at home. Make sure that your pet has plenty of bones, a kong, or balls, and offer your cat a catnip mouse and balls with bells inside. Additionally, know that a sleeping pet is a well-behaved pet. It's difficult to cause trouble when tired. Therefore, make sure that your pet gets sufficient exercise. Take walks regularly and allow your dog to interact with other canines. The purchase of a laser light can provide hours of exercise and fun for your cat. Cats love to chase a dot on the wall, and this amusing exercise will keep him fit and out of trouble.

Changing the environment of your pet may also make him feel more secure. Your dog knows that you turn off the television or radio when you leave; so change it up a bit. Dog owners have had some success with leaving the television or radio on while they are gone. For pets, environmental noise is something that occurs only when you are home, and. therefore, alleviates the anxiety that occurs when he thinks you are not in the vicinity. Providing visual or audio stimulation is very successful. Providing a window perch where a cat can observe birds that fly by the house is an example, or you can take advantage of videotapes or DVD's that show birds.

Unlike dogs, when cats misbehave, you cannot march him off to obedience class. Correcting unacceptable feline behavior can be significantly different than correcting canine behavior patterns. A bored or lonely cat may display many of the same behaviors as a cat suffering from separation anxiety. Yelling at him usually generates little response. Inappropriate urination is a very common reaction for cats and can be eliminated using a combination of patience and ingenuity.

For a cat that insists that he must urinate on your clothing or bedroom floor, you must first make sure that there is a litter box nearby. Cats tend to make the decision as to where they want their box located. If your cat is using your laundry hamper as a litter box, try placing his box near the hamper. Gradually move the box to the location comfortable to you. Make sure that the box is filled with the litter that your cat prefers. Cats can be quite finicky about what they put their feet into. Generally, cats prefer clumping litter to clay. Additionally, make sure that the litter is kept clean. By clean, the litter must be clean according to your cat's standards, not yours. Cats are fastidious animals and the difference between a box that has recently been urinated in and a box that is freshly scooped may well be the difference for success.

There certainly are options for pet owners to rid both their canine and feline companions of undesirable behavior. Changing behaviors in both cats and dogs takes patience, planning and lots of rewards. The trick is to make the offensive behavior unpleasant for your dog or cat. Doing so will make both the pets, and their owners, happier and far more comfortable.

In the final analysis, while most pets do not suffer from separation anxiety, all pets suffer from boredom and loneliness. It is a fact. The question becomes how to reverse this perpetual condition. It is an inescapable reality that pets, especially indoor pets, are alone with little stimulation for 10 to 12 hours at a time. There are alternative and creative ways to combat this syndrome. A pet that is hampered with boredom may become restless and destructive. A pet that is lonely has a greater chance of suffering from depression.

With the prevalence of technology today, it is economically possible to engage and befriend your pet during the day, while you are away. Take the time and effort to research those ways that will brighten and liven the days of your pet. Doing so will not only demonstrate that you care, but bolster the health and happiness of your pet. This in turn will only benefit you as a pet owner. You will get more satisfaction of having a healthier and happier pet. You will have peace of mind and reduce sense of guilt of not completely abandoning your pet.

In closing, may all pet owners recognize that we need to be best friends to our best friends.

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My Children Want a Puppy - The Thought Process in Purchasing a Pet For Our Family

Show me a person who does not like animals and I will show you a person who is troubled. Personally, I like dogs because I grew up with them as a child.

Today I am married and have a beautiful six year old daughter and three year old son and they are full of energy and enthusiasm. In other words, my children are into everything and want a puppy.

My wife and I want to buy a puppy for our children because it will help them learn how to care for and enjoy the company of a pet. Having a puppy is a great socialization tool for young children because pets add so much joy.

One of the reasons my children want a puppy is because they were watching the National Kennel Cub Dog Show on television. The show gave my children a broad overview of the different kind of dogs, to include breed, size and energy level of each dog.

I suggested we purchase a puppy that can live inside our house which means we will potty train it, feed it and care for it. By having a puppy inside the house I children will have a good opportunity to interact and care for it.

My vision for a new puppy differs significantly from my wife. Why? My wife does not want a puppy inside our house because she does not want the puppies hair to shed and or the puppy climb into bed our bed to sleep.

I tend to rely on the decision of my children and what they really want and they make good decisions. My children want a puppy to live in the house with us, looks like a three to one vote on purchasing a puppy to live inside our house.

It is going to be interesting to see exactly how things will unfold leading up to the puppy purchase. Perhaps my children will get exactly what they want, a puppy to live inside our house. Mom could very well nix the inside the house puppy because she does not like having a pet in the house.

The bottom line is this, we are going to purchase a puppy because it will be a great addition to our family and help our children understand the level of responsibility it takes to care for a pet. We must also consider if the puppy wants to be part of our family, just because we want one does not mean the puppy will automatically want us to care for it.

Here is to purchasing a puppy for our children. I know our children will love and care for a puppy and learn valuable lessons in the process.

Paul Lawrence Vann is an inspirational speaker who assist organizations and individuals to maximize their human potential and improve their bottom line. He is the author of Living on Higher Ground and is host of The Wealthy Speaker Show. Paul is a leadership expert and diversity train-the-trainer who works with Fortune 500, associations, goverment agencies, military institutions an educational institutions. http://www.paullawrencevann.com, http://www.blogtalkradio.com/paullawrencevann, (240) 416-5077.

Why Every Family Should Have a Pet

Millions of families on this planet include at least one non-human member. Whether it is a dog, cat, fish, turtle, rabbit or python, a new pet can very quickly become a much-loved member of the family in its own right.

Many studies have shown that this can only be a good thing - for many reasons. When it comes to teaching children a variety of life lessons, helping to bond individual members of the family together as a unit and generally creating a sense of well-being and contentment within the home, there is nothing like the unconditional love that a family pet radiates.

Watching a stumbling kitten struggle with its new limbs while it explores the wonder that is the world around it often inspires the same type of wonder in the watcher. Sharing these types of experiences with your young children is like being present and watching the birth of their own personalities before your very eyes. You are watching, even influencing, them as they create the fundamental thought processes that will inform their every future move in life, as they incorporate their maturing view of the world into the expression of their own existence.

As both the animal and child matures, so does the family unit itself. Members are commonly added as new children come onto the scene, and the interactions between sibling and sibling, and sibling and parent, are often tempered by the impartial and spontaneous love that a family pet can bring to the picture.

Upset, confused or lonely children are often comforted by the complete support and acceptance offered by a long-loved animal. Memories of shared experiences, and the complete lack of judgement possible from the animal can cradle a sad heart with the wag of a tail and touch of a paw.

Positive, life affirming events such as the birth of new puppies - or even new tadpoles - can inspire an active curiosity about nature and the fundamental questions of life. If seen in the right perspective and recognised by parents, they can provide opportunities for learning that cannot be found in books, on TV or even in video games!

Lessons learned from other, less happy events, while more difficult to experience, are just as important and valuable than the joyful occasions. If a family pet is sick or injured, the feelings experienced can be just as powerful as if a human member of the family were in peril. The agony of waiting to find out if the patient will recover and be healthy again is not pleasant, but is an important introduction to adult concepts that will recur throughout life and can teach children emotional strength, as well as confirm that the worst does not always happen when the pet is safe at home again.

Should the worst happen, and the patient not pull through, even the ultimate tragedy of losing a loved one can be felt, examined and understood somewhat through the loss of a pet, well before the child must inevitably face the same situation as an adult. It is important that parents recognise the learning opportunities inherent in raising an animal alongside their human children. Starting from the time the child is old enough to interact safely with the chosen animal, having both the child and pet grow together is the ideal situation. Depending on the pet, the animal's shorter life cycle will allow the children to watch them grow from babies to adults, to parents with children of their own. Obviously such an epic cycle involves commitment and responsibility, both from the child and the parents involved.

It is immediately apparent that pets bring with them a joy, spontaneity, and unconditional love that can only add to any family unit. There are, however, many less obvious, but very important, reasons why it can only benefit every family to include at least one non-human member.

Jen Cooper works online from where ever she happens to be at the time. Learn more about how to do this for yourself by visiting http://www.neurons.ws or [http://www.livedontwork.com]

Is Your Family Ready For a Pet?

They are cute, fluffy, and adorable in the pet store, but is your family ready for a pet? Your children may beg and plead to get a dog or cat, but are they willing to help with it? They might say "yes" but is that really the case? Consider these things, before jumping in...

o How much time do you have to devote to a pet? Are you out of the house a lot? Do you travel often? Does anyone have allergies that make certain pets off-limits?

o Is your child mature enough for pet? Most experts recommend that children be 6 years of age. To gauge your child's readiness, be sure he shows self-control and obeys the word "no." Also, observe his behavior around other people's pets to see if he is gentle and respectful with them.

o Read as much as you can about the types of animals you're interested in before buying anything. Different dog breeds vary on how much exercise and attention they need. You'll want to choose an animal and breed that suits your family's lifestyle. Also consider which breeds shed the least and the most, and if you are willing to clean up mountains of dog hair or not.

o Consider how much a pet can cost. Food, medical care, grooming costs can add up to $400 a year.

o If you are considering a puppy, think of the time and effort needed to train them. Not to mention the clean up after accidents. Will your child be willing to help with these issues?

o Before going out and purchasing that Great Dane, you might want to consider getting a small pet such as a mouse or a fish to see how you children react to it. This may help you and them prepare for a larger animal that takes more effort.

How Kids Can Help With the Pet

No matter how much your children tell you they will help you with the pet, the novelty often wears off and the parents are left with the lease and the pooper-scooper. But, if you get a pet keep insisting that the children help because they definitely have the ability to.

Young children (ages 5 and up) can feed the pet, make sure he has clean water, and brush him if necessary. With your supervision, your child can also help walk a dog and clean cages or tanks for hamsters, guinea pigs, fish, and other small pets.

Older children (ages 10 and up) can take on more responsibilities, including walking a dog solo, emptying a cat's litter box, and cleaning a small pet's cage. Also consider letting a child this age participate in any dog training classes you may attend.

Owning a pet can be a tremendous responsibility for a child. But it can also teach them responsibility, provide them with some exercise (walking and playing with the dog), and teach them how to nurture and love another living creature.

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Is My Child Ready For A Family Pet?

At some point every child asks that all time famous question. "Can I have a pet?" While owning a pet fosters responsibility and compassion, some children are just not ready to help take care of a pet. It is a huge responsibility and one that must be given careful thought.

There are many things you should consider as a family.

What kind of pet?

What kind of pet would fit into your life style best. There are many options from large dogs to little fish. You should carefully consider the needs of each and what you think will fit into you life style as well. The happiest pet is one with happy owners that don't feel stressed by its care and needs. You should study into types as well as breeds so you know exactly what to expect breeds.

Can you afford the addition of a pet?

Now that you have decided on a type of pet. You need to consider the cost of owning a pet. Pets even if you are given on free are very expensive. If you have a dog or a cat there will be vet visits, food, licensing, toys and supplies and if your pet should become sick there are medications they may need. Owning a pet is very expensive.

Do you have the time?

Animals require attention just like we do as human beings. The need to be feed, groomed, walked, played with. They need to know they are loved. With out proper care they will suffer. Families that are going threw major changes such as a move or birth of a child or that work long hours may just not have the time.

My home

Do you live in an apartment? Is a pet OK with your landlord? Will you have to pay a separate pet deposit? Do you have the space? Is there room in the back yard for a pet to roam? Are there laws in your area regarding scooping and licensing? What are they?

My child

Is he or she ready? Owning a pet is a family matter. Never surprise your child with a pet they are not expecting. Expectations about the pets care and exercise should be laid out clearly. Many children loose interest in a pet after the first few weeks and leave mom and dad to care for the pet. Pets require gentle handling and understanding do you think your child is ready for that? How do they react to animals you see out in public? Are they rough, or afraid? It may be better if they learn some animal care before you add a pet to your home. Visits to the local animal shelter are a wonderful start and often the staff is willing to teach basic animal care to children.

Remember

A pet is a huge commitment. Many pets live for at least 15 years with proper care. Will you still want this commitment then? Puppies, kittens and such are cute, but they grow and have needs that must be met.

Jennifer is a full time mother of nine children.She resides in a small fishing village on the coast of Maine.She has been married for 12 years to her best friend whom is also her loving husband.

You can find many more articles like this one at http://simplymoms.com as well as parenting chat and message forums; zjgim@hotmail.com

Introducing A Pet Into The Family

You've finally made the decision. After lengthy discussions as to the pros and cons of owning a pet, you've decided that the time is right. Your children are no longer infants; they have spent plenty of quality time with Aunt Trudy's Labrador Retriever, "Sunny" and her Siamese cat, "Simone". They have played with a neighbor's German Shepherd. Uncle Fred has brought his Border Collie," Billy" over to the house many times. The kids have also learned about animal companions and how to care for them in school where they have turtles, bunnies, gerbils and hamsters in the classroom. Although the kids love every kind of animal, it seems they are most enamored of the canine variety and want a dog of their own.

While the kids have been begging for a dog for a long time (it seems like forever!) you want to make certain that they (as well as you and your husband) are really ready to assume responsibility for the life of another living being that will reside in your home. Your little boy is 8 - his sister is 5. You want your kids to learn responsibility. Still, ultimately you will be the primary caregiver and supervisor of your children. Are you all ready to share this responsibility?

Before you adopt your new canine, do your homework!!! Go on the Internet. Read about and research the various breeds of dogs that most appeal to you and your family and determine which seem most compatible with your personalities and lifestyle. Decide if you want to purchase a dog from a breeder (make sure he's reputable and has references!) or if you'd like to adopt an animal that is in need of a loving home from a shelter or "rescue" group.

There are countless breed specific rescue groups across the country, which feature purebred representatives of virtually every kind of dog from Mastiffs to Dachshunds. These rescue groups are easily located on the Internet and commonly feature a gallery of dogs available for adoption along with details about the animal's age, health and personality.

There are many wonderful, healthy and loving animals that have been abused neglected or abandoned and are in need of loving homes. Too many pets end up in shelters or in rescue organizations simply because their owners lacked sufficient understanding about the breed they selected. Perhaps you can adopt an animal in need of a home!!! Go together as a family so you can see how each of you interacts with a potential adoptee. Most organizations or shelters have special visiting areas and afford you the opportunity to "play" or visit with the animal. Jointly decide which animal is best suited for your family.

Before you take the final step of actually purchasing or adopting a pet, make sure you have asked yourself the following questions: -How much time does my family realistically have to spend with a pet?

-How intelligent/trainable is the breed of interest?

-How well does it get along with other dogs? People?

-How large is it, or if it's a puppy, how large will it get?

-Is the dog good (patient and trustworthy) with children?

-How much exercise and space will it require?

-Is my backyard fenced so that my dog can safely run and play and not escape?

-Can we afford to take care of a pet? Its food and medical costs?

Once you've determined that you can care for a pet, take the pet you've selected to a veterinarian (ask pet-owning friends for referrals) for a check-up to determine if he's healthy or prone to any health problems. Your vet should provide you with a vaccine and regular exam schedule. Ask him to recommend the food and diet best suited to your dog's needs. It is a good idea to have your pet tattooed or micro chipped by your vet as a permanent means of identification should he get lost or stolen. Also, inquire about flea, tick and heartworm prevention and spaying/neutering.

Once you learn that the pet is in good health, make your home dog friendly and safe both inside and out. Check the fence to make certain your dog won't be able to escape. Inside, determine where your pet will eat and sleep. Provide bedding and separate bowls for his food and water.

Have the family decide on the pet's name, then purchase a comfortable, secure collar, an identification tag with his name and your phone number, and a leash.

When your family is ready to take your pet home, each of you should pet and speak soothingly and comfortingly to him. As easily and gently as possible, put on his new collar, name tag and leash. Speak softly and calmly as you guide and help him into your car. Gently pet him.

When you arrive home, orient him to his new surroundings -walk him around your home and introduce him to your back yard while he's still on leash. Bring him into the house and take him to his special "place" - then guide him through your house slowly and calmly so that he will become familiar with it. Allow him to experience the "scent" of each room. Finally, show him his bed and his special place and remove his leash. Give him fresh water and talk to and pet him gently. Give him some doggie toys to play with. Hold him in your lap - cradle him in your arms and welcome him into your family!

So, now, you've completed all your homework. You've read and researched. You've asked the appropriate questions and received answers to them. Your expectations are realistic - And you have finally found the dog of your family's dreams. Good job - well done! You and your family are now ready to enter into one of life's most enjoyable, rich and rewarding relationships and to experience the unconditional love and acceptance that only a beloved companion animal can provide!!!

Congratulations!!!

DR. DIANE POMERANCE received her Ph.D. in Communications in 1979 from the University of Michigan, and has written the highly acclaimed children's nonfiction book on pet loss, "When Your Pet Dies" which teaches children how to cope with and recover from the loss of a beloved companion animal as well as from the other inevitable losses in life. She is also the author of "Animal Companions: Your Friends, Teachers & Guides", "Animal Companions: In Our Hearts, Our Lives & Our World.", Animal Elders: Caring About Our Aging Animal Companions", "Finding Peace After the Loss of a Loved Animal Companion", and her most recent book "Pet Parenthood: Adopting the Right Animal Companion for You." As a writer, teacher, counselor and animal lover, Dr. Pomerance recognizes that the loss of a pet can be devastating to adults as well as to children and counsels those mourning the loss of a beloved companion animal. For over 25 years, she also worked in a wide variety of capacities in the entertainment industry both in New York and Los Angeles, including production work with such programs as NBC's Sports shows "NFL Live" and "Grandstand", PBS' "MacNeill/Lehrer Report", and "Bill Moyer's Journal."

Let Your Children Help Choose the Family Pet - Part Two

Caring for pets should be a joy and a privilege for children, not a punishment. If your kids come to see their pets as nothing but chore-inducing nuisances, then you may be reinforcing negative attitudes towards animals and a lack of empathy for them, the exact opposite of your original intent. If your children aren't ready to make good on their promises, you must be prepared to do everything yourself, at least for a time.

Get the kids involved at the outset. Encourage them to compile lists of the pros and cons of each type of pet in relation to your family's home situation and lifestyle. Make charts comparing different types of companion animals. If you are contemplating adding more than one type of pet to the family, be sure that each one's safety can be assured. How will you mix cats and rabbits, or fish ?

You might also consider acquiring two new pets of the same species. Each animal deserves to have the companionship of a fellow member of its own species. Two cats, for example, could keep each other company when the rest of the household is out during the day. My own two cats, who are sisters, don't exactly interact with each other a lot, but they do take comfort in each others presence, particularly when something such as a thunderstorm makes them feel insecure. If you like mice, housing several mice together in a large airy home will give them more opportunities for play and provide you with an entertaining daily circus of activity.

Once your whole family has settled on the right species, you can start to think about your new pet in more detail. If it will be a dog, do you prefer a mongrel or a purebreed ? What size, color and features would best suit everyone's taste ? Do you need a dog who can be trusted around a baby and who is tolerant of the behavior of very young children ? If you have lots of flower beds that you would hate to see dug up by a dog avoid terriers, as they have a propensity for digging. What color cat would you like. If your kids go in for small rodents, would they prefer rats or mice, gerbils or hamsters ? If they want variety, then a little group of mice might be just the thing, as they can be found in all sorts of colors and patterns making it easy to tell each individual apart from the others.

Please don't ever consider trying to turn wild animals, such as raccoons or squirrels, into pets. It's cruel to deprive wild animals of their natural lives in their natural habitats. Those adorable little baby animals are likely to grow up to be destructive when kept in a human house, or quick to bite, as they mature and their instincts fully develop. They'll become impossible to keep, and yet unafraid of humans and poorly equipped to survive the rigors of life in the wild. Making a wild animal into a pet is a recipe for disaster and its the animal who inevitably suffers the consequences. Please think twice, too, before caging a wild bird, as birds are born to fly and to cover large distances.

When you've finally settled on the species decide which sex you want. Male cats may spray the furniture when indoors, if not neutered. Two male mice, when kept together, may fight, while a colony of female mice can live together harmoniously. If you're adding small caged pets like rodents to your family, be sure that you don't inadvertently bring home a male and a female, or you'll soon find that you have more little critters than you can manage.

If you welcome female cats or dogs into your home, do not let them have babies so that your children can witness "the miracle of birth." It's a far better lesson for your kids to see you take on the responsibility of spaying and neutering cats and dogs so that you do not contribute to the problem of pet overpopulation. There are already far too many unwanted pets who end their short lives in shelters. Spaying and neutering bring health benefits to animals, as well. For example, neutered male cats will not spray in the house or roam far afield getting into fights, and spayed female cats will be less subject to certain medical conditions as they age.

Once you've decided on the perfect family pet you'll need to gather information to better prepare you for life with your new friend or friends. Involve your kids in the research and reading as much as you can. Don't confine your research to aspects of pet care, important as that is, because it's also a good idea to have a information on hand that can help you out if your pets ever show symptoms of illness. Information on signs and symptoms and their possible causes can help you determine when it's safe to "watch and wait" and when immediate veterinary treatment is vital.

Take your kids with you when you are ready to start shopping around for that perfect pet. Be sure to stick to reputable sources (ie. no puppy mills) that provide hygienic conditions for the animals in their care. If the caregivers also display gentleness and spend time playing with their animals, the animals will be more likely to develop into affectionate and sociable pets.

Consider adopting a cat or dog from a reputable animal shelter. Here you'll find animals who have already suffered at human hands and been abandoned or mistreated. You'll be rescuing them and offering them a second chance for a happy life. Although they may require some extra patience on your part and lots of TLC to get them over their past traumas, you'll be rewarded by knowing that you've given a good home to an animal in need, one who may otherwise have faced euthanasia.

When you're out pet hunting, be sure that your kids know how to move slowly and quietly, so as not to frighten the animals they're looking at. During your search of shelters, pet shops or private homes that have placed classified ads, at some point you and your children will find yourselves looking into that face, the sweetest face on earth, the face of the little creature whom you absolutely must have. It will be love at first sight, your hearts will melt, and you'll all be sure that this is the one, even if he or she does not meet all of the criteria that you had so painstakingly defined beforehand !

Barbara Freedman-De Vito has been involved with children and animals for many years. She's been a teacher, children's librarian, wildlife rehabilitator, artist and writer on topics related to both children and animals. Her husband, Bob, has also run an animal shelter and done animal rescue work. You can see Small Animals T-Shirts and other small animal gifts in her shop.

Ferrets - Fun Intelligent Family Pets

Ferrets come from the noble weasel family, and are related to minks and otters. Domestic ferrets have been part of human households for thousands of years, beginning their interaction as mice catchers in barns. They were also used by hunters to flush rabbits out of their dens. From those "occupations", they moved into houses and became pets. But anyone considering adopting today should become familiar with certain ferret information.

Ferrets are very intelligent animals, and can be fun family pets. They need plenty of play time, and will entertain their owners for hours. In fact, they should be given at least three or four hours a day of free play time outside of their cages. They want to include their owners in their play, as they are social animals.

Because of their intelligence-fortunately for homeowners-ferrets are easily trained to use a litter box. As with cats and dogs, however, accidents can happen, but they are generally clean animals. They can, however, smell slightly musky...more so than a dog. This is especially true of ferrets that have not been spayed or neutered.

To keep them healthy and smelling at least a little better, they should be "fixed". However, another important bit of ferret information is that, if the animal is frightened, it can release a fairly foul odor. Fortunately, the odor generally dissipates quickly.

Another side effect of their intelligence is curiosity. Ferrets want to check out everything. Potential ferret owners should baby-proof the house. Lock cabinets, especially those that store medications or cleaning supplies. Remove any breakable items from the areas where the ferrets will run free. Make sure the toilet lids are kept closed, as well as the bathroom doors to keep them from clawing shower curtains and toilet paper or getting hold of bar soap.

Anything made of foam should be put away or the ferrets may shred it. They might even ingest stuffing or foam-sponges, too-which can be dangerous or even deadly to these animals. Houseplants and wastebaskets should be kept out of reach of these pets as well.

If you have a dog or cat, you should consider the following ferret information. These animals are so friendly and so domesticated, that they have little fear of other animals. But cats and dogs have been known to hurt or kill ferrets. On the other hand, ferrets will look upon animals like hamsters, birds, and reptiles as food. So anyone who has these or other small pets might want to reconsider raising ferrets.

Keeping all of this information in mind, however, ferrets do make wonderful family pets. Children above the age of five can be taught to be gentle with a family ferret, but adults should take care of feeding and grooming, and should definitely supervise playtime.

When they are young, ferrets may playfully nip at those who handle them, but they can be taught not to do that. Adult ferrets that are treated well are not biters. Instead, they are lovable pets. In fact, ferrets become so attached to their owners that they can become stressed if parted for extended periods of time. For that reason, a person who travels a lot or who works long hours, might want to consider another type of pet.

Finally, anyone considering adopting a ferret should find out if they are legal in their state. Local animal control officers can provide that and other ferret information.

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

Let Your Children Help Choose The Family Pet - Part Three

Have your new pets checked over by a vet, especially before bringing them into a home where you already have other animals, to quickly catch, treat and prevent the spread of any diseases that may have been contracted while in the pet shop or shelter. You wouldn't want a joyous moment to turn into a tragedy. It's also important to have the vet take care of any necessary shots and routine worming treatments and such.

Have your home all ready for your new arrivals before you actually bring them home. Buy pet beds and food bowls, toys and litter boxes, brushes and leashes. Have everything in place when you welcome your pets to their new home and, of course, lay in a good supply of pet food that will provide them with well balanced diets. Junk food is just as bad for pets as it is for people !

Before your pet arrives you and your children should give your home a good going over to remove anything that might be dangerous to pets. The image of a puppy chewing on a slipper is a familiar one, but that same puppy or a might also chew on electrical cords. Poinsettias are poisonous to cats, plus cats may swallow Christmas tinsel or pieces of string and yarn which can block their intestines. Go around your home and conceal wires, store medications and household cleaning products, and put sharp objects out of reach. Learn which house plants might be poisonous if ingested, and don't leave heavy objects where they might get knocked over. Make it into a game in which your children search for potential pet dangers and come up with ways to remove each one.

Puppies and kittens will invariably get into everything that they have access to, so be careful that they do not get closed into drawers or climb into kitchen appliances. Take the same kind of precautions that you'd take with very young children in the house. Teach your kids to keep your pet's safety in mind at all times. Animals have a tendency to be forever underfoot, so teach your children to move slowly and gently and to look before they take a step or sit down. Teach them to open doors slowly, in case a furry little someone is just behind that door.

When your new pets first come home, try to give them a quiet spot and plenty of time to acclimate to their new environment. Sights, sounds and smells will all play a role as your pets gradually learn their way around their new homes. Don't overstress new pets with too much noisy attention and fussing. Too many hands reaching out to pat them or pick them up may be frightening. Let pets gradually get accustomed to the children in the house. With lots of love and affection and socialization practice your new pet should soon find its place within the family. Supervise young children until they've learned how to be gentle and considerate of pets' needs and feelings: no sudden noises, no tail-pulling, no dressing pets up in human clothing, no teasing them. As your children come to understand why they should not do these things, they will learn to respect their fellow creatures as autonomous beings and they will grow up to be compassionate, caring adults.

Be cautious when introducing new pets to pets already living in the house, to avoid conflicts. Give your older pets plenty of attention and affection, so as to prevent jealousy and any resulting aggression. Take care not to ignore them in favor of the new arrival, just as you would be careful to not ignore your older children when a new baby is born into the family. For animals there may be territoriality issues to work out and strange new scents to decipher. You must also take precautions when introducing your new pet to his outdoor environment and new yard or neighborhood, to avoid undue disorientation and anxiety or worse.

As new pets settle into the routine of daily life at your house, you and your kids can put into practice all the pet care tips that you've read about: provide your pets with a healthy diet, always give them access to fresh, clean water, encourage plenty of exercise in a safe environment and keep up with all required vaccinations and other medical treatments. And never leave pets in hot parked cars in the summertime, as temperatures inside cars can quickly rise and threaten the lives of animals closed inside.

Take care of every one of your pet's needs, from daily brushings to periodic toenail trimmings to annual shots. Give pets toys that are safe to play with, with no pointy edges that could poke eyes or jab throats. Your pets use their mouths to play with objects, so no small parts that might be bitten off or swallowed. Respect an animal's need for privacy. When your pets need some quiet time alone, be sure that they get it. Give them nice soft beds, boxes to climb into and other safe hidey holes in out-of-the-way places. Teach your kids to respect your pet's moods and to not bother them when they're sleeping. The better your children know the animals who live in your house, and the more involved they are in your pet's care and daily routines, the closer they'll be to them and the more they'll love them.

The unquestioning love that animals, such as cats and dogs, can give to humans is one of the nicest gifts that you can give to your children, and the best gift that you can give to your pets is the unconditional love that you and your kids feel for them. The love that pets give to humans can also help kids through difficult times. Trusted dogs or cats will actively seek out attention, play and cuddling, and their companionship will be constant when friends and schools and other things may change. Pets are always there to listen to children's troubles, share their joys, and keep them company during times of loneliness, and children can confide their secrets to their pet with the absolute certainty that the animal will never betray their confidence.

That sort of absolute love and devotion can bring children and animals together in such a special way, and that inter-species bond can help your children grow up to be compassionate adults who feel more connected to the natural world. Pets give their best to us and, in return, we should do our best for them. They deserve all the love, time, attention, play, and affection that your children, and you, can give them.

Pets are not toys, they are members of the family. When new pets are added to a household, with proper care and with plenty of love, they will soon find their place within your hearts and your lives and you'll all wonder how you ever could have gotten along without them !

Barbara Freedman-De Vito has been involved with children and animals for many years. She's been a teacher, children's librarian, wildlife rehabilitator, artist and writer on topics related to both children and animals. Her husband, Bob, has also run an animal shelter and done animal rescue work. You can see I Love My Dog T-Shirts, Bumper Stickers, Mugs, Magnets and other dog gifts in her shop.

Our New "Minor Children" in the American Family - The Law, the Implications For Pets

What? A "Pet trust"? Pets as our "children"? We are supposed to consider including our pet animals - dogs, cats, birds, etc - as "family members" and "loved ones" who should be covered in our testamentary trust or will and our estate planning? Aren't these just mere "animals"?

Well, not quite so any more these days!

Americans own a huge number of pets, including about 68 million dogs and 73 million cats, according to a 2000 estimate by the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association. What is even particularly fundamental, however, from the sociological standpoint and the transformation of the American society, is this: That for a great many Americans, and a growing number of them, their home pets are now considered a bona fide "member of the family," and not just "animals" any more.

An October 1999 survey by the USA Today newspaper, for example, found that more than 66% of American pet owners said they consider their pets "a member of the family." In a more recent survey by the American Animal Hospital Association, a whopping 84% of American pet owners were reported to think of their animal companions as being their kids.

In deed, a more telling indices of the dramatic evolution of the pet from mere 'animals' towards the highly exulted status of a 'family member' in the American society, is the general attitude of the pet owners towards their pets and simply the way they treat, regard and relate with their pets. For example, according to surveys, some 79% of pet owners allow their pets to sleep in their beds with them, while 3% of them even count pets in the number of IRS withholdings they claim for tax purposes. The evidence is simply astounding: 50% of American pet owners talk "baby talk" to their pets; 37% of them carry a picture of their pets in their wallets; 27% of them include their pets in their testamentary trusts or wills; while 8% buy health insurance for their pets. There's more. Nowadays, the "custody fights" over pets among divorcing couples who own pets, are among the most hotly contested issues in divorce proceedings; pet owners now throw lavish wedding and birthday parties for dogs, cats, and other pet animals, more adults today have pets than children, and so on and on.

Summed up simply, just about all those kinds of special rights, privileges and actions that have traditionally been reserved for and directed towards protecting and caring for human children, are, today, now used to protect and care for pets, as well. In other words, gradually but surely, there is now in the American society a new and increasingly significant kind of "family members" and "children." It's called the NON-human or pet animal family members and children!

And that brings us to this major question: how has the American law evolved in response to this developing new sociological reality in the American society? In terms of providing our new-found pet animal "infant children" the essential legal rights, care and protections as would be fitting for our human "infant children"? Suffice it simply to say, that a new specialized area of law has developed in the American jurisprudence pertaining to this issue. One significant aspect of it is what is known as the "pet trust" law. In point of fact, the American pet owners have for centuries expressed concerns and interest in establishing an estate plan for their animals in the same manner as people plan for their spouses and children, but that general impulse had for so long been resisted by the State legislatures and the Courts based on one legal rationale or the other. However, beginning in the 1990s, under the guidelines established by the National Conference of Commissioners of Uniform State Laws, State legislatures (at least 40 of them as of 2006) and the courts have adopted laws which address precisely those concerns and now permit the creation of trusts specifically for the custody and care of designated pets and their offspring in times of the incapacity or death of their owner.

Basically, with a legally valid 'pet trust,' you (the pet owner) can make specific provisions as to the care of your pets in the event of your disability or death, and provide for a reliable caretaker and funding arrangement for the pet all of which will be legally enforceable by the courts. Thus, with the "pet trust," a relatively recent estate planning tool applicable for pet animals, you can assure that in the event of any such emergency, your pets will not likely wind up in the shelter or pound somewhere awaiting euthanasia, but will be taken into a safe home and will be properly cared for by a responsible, caring caretaker.

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Let Your Children Help Choose The Family Pet - Part One

Have your children been hounding you for a dog, cat, rabbit or hamster? Are you already contemplating adding a new family member in the form of a pet? Let your children have a say in your choice of what type of animal you'll be welcoming into your home. As with many big decisions in life, such as moving to a new home, the more you keep your children involved in the decision-making process and preparations, the more they'll be excited about, and ready to participate in, the responsibilities and adjustments that the change entails. In the case of a new pet, this early involvement in the choice of an animal will help your children along the way to accepting responsibility for their choices and their actions, plus it will contribute towards their growing up to be caring and accountable as adults.

The first decision to be made regarding a new pet is, what species shall it be? Have your children always dreamed of having a dog who would accompany them on their adventures? Perhaps they want a soft, warm and affectionate cat to cuddle up with on a rainy day and tell their troubles to. Have your kids wished for a whiskered little brown mouse who would climb into a snug shirt pocket to retrieve a hidden nut or take a little nap?

In addition to such heart-based desires for particular types of pets, there are also some fundamental issues that must be addressed. What type of pet is your family in the best position to house and care for? How much space, money and time do you have to devote to your pets? Animals are not toys to be bought on impulse and then tossed away when they cease to amuse or become a burden. By considering such important questions and making well thought out decisions at the outset, you can avoid contributing to the sorrow of animals who are abandoned or end their short lives in animal shelters.

The first issue to think about is space. Do you have a large enclosed yard safe from cars and other dangers, such as broken glass or harmful chemicals? Do you live in a city apartment where a dog would have to be cooped up all day, with nothing to do but look forward to the brief evening walks?

Cats can settle more comfortably into apartment living and, in an urban environment, cats are far safer remaining indoors than allowed to roam where all sorts of dangers like cars, dogs, diseases, discarded antifreeze could prematurely end their lives. The outside world can be fatal for cats. For example, in winter outdoor cats may climb up under a car's hood for the residual warmth of the engine, and then be killed when the unsuspecting driver starts up his car.

Small rodents don't require much space, although you should build them as large a house as you possibly can, and never confine them to sad little cages devoid of space to run and play, or lacking in platforms, wheels and trapezes to entertain them. Large wood and screen homes are also better ventilated than those with glass or plastic sides and thus much healthier for small companion animals.

Money is another easily overlooked, but important factor to consider when deciding what pet your family would like. You can avoid later heartbreak by doing a few calculations in advance. While small pets such as rats, mice, hamsters, and gerbils require that you furnish them with a living space of their own, their food, water bottles and such are inexpensive. Cats and dogs are much larger and eat more, increasing the size of your monthly food bills, plus they require regular visits to the vet for routine shots, not to mention the one time expense of spaying or neutering procedures. Once you've made the decision to welcome any animals into your home, you have the responsibility to give them the best care and treatment possible.

Time is of the essence. Is your entire household off at work or school all day? Will a highly social animal, such as a dog, spend most days alone and forlorn? Certain types of pets demand more of your time, in more ways than one. First of all, consider the daily time needed to handle your pets' daily needs, such as feeding, washing water dishes, cleaning out litter pans, changing fish tanks, grooming, or dog walking. Will these routine chores be a pleasure to perform for the animals you love, an unpleasant necessity that you really don't mind, or an unwelcome burden that leads you to resent the presence of these animals in your home?

The second critical part of the question of available time is the important role that love and affection play in your pets' well-being. While a colony of mice might not mind if they're not played with by you or your children for a few days, dogs and cats will suffer for it. Some animals' emotional stability depends on the love they receive from the human members of the family. Cuddling, patting, and play can make all the difference in a pet's happiness, and in how well they fit into their home environment. Would you prefer a cat who runs and hides or tries to scratch you when you approach her, or one who rubs up against your leg and climbs into your lap for a cuddle ? To a large extent, it is your behavior and that of your children that will determine the personality and behavior of the pets who share your home. Happy and sweetly dispositioned pets are those who are well cared for and well loved. Before taking on pets who need a lot of your time, be sure that you have time to give. In addition, give thought to what will happen to your pets when you head off on vacation. Would your pets go with you, or do you have friends or relatives who can come into your home and care for your pets, as well as spend time with them ? Or would you board your pets?

Pets are often seen as a way to teach children responsibility, and the children are the ones who will be expected to take the time to attend to their pet's physical and emotional needs. This approach can be of great value to children. If, however, the children are not yet ready to handle such responsibilities, or they neglect their duties and lose interest in their pets, it is the animals who suffer the consequences. Therefore, in the process of selecting family pets, you must decide how much time and devotion you yourself are willing to give to your household animals. You need to be willing to clean those litter pans or walk the dog in the pouring rain, if necessary. Your pets cannot be made to suffer . Animals are living beings with needs and feelings and they cannot be made to bear the brunt of neglect in case the children renege on their promises to do everything, if only they were allowed to have that dog or rabbit or other pet.

Barbara Freedman-De Vito has been involved with children and animals for many years. She's been a teacher, children's librarian, wildlife rehabilitator, artist and writer on topics related to both children and animals. Her husband, Bob, has also run an animal shelter and done animal rescue work. You can see I Love Small Animals T-Shirts, Bumper Stickers, Mugs, Magnets and other small animal gifts in her shop.

So the Family Wants to Choose a Dog As the New Family Pet - What You Need to Know First

We will assume there are children in the family. This time of year many choose a puppy as the new family pet. A reasonable question is then, how old should the children be when their first pet comes into the home? Some experts say 6 to 8 years old. A more common sense approach is simply that the children should be old enough, mature enough, to understand the word no. Notice your children around dogs belonging to friends and relatives. How do they relate to those dogs? If this is all positive then it will be a parental decision. Parents should remember that the child needs to be mature enough to take on the responsibility for care and feeding because if the do not, you know who will be doing it, sometimes for years.

Should you go ahead and choose a pet begin immediately teaching by example. Let the children know and understand that the pet is now a family member and should be loved and cared for, not simply played with then tossed aside when something new comes along that may be more fun.

Puppies require lots of physical attention and training. Consider how much time you as the adult can be at home then how much time you can devote to the care, feeding and training of your pet puppy. If you bring a puppy into the home an amount of training will be required. It will pay dividends year after year. You need to be at home often to do that. You will also need to do dog crate training. One expert suggests that if your family is out of the home for 8 hours or more each day, you probably should not be trying to find a pet for your family.

Will you choose a dog that will be affectionate and cuddly or will you choose a dog that will be an outdoors type? It is important to choose a breed with the nature to become the type of dog you are looking for. This requires some time and reading to make a list of outdoors active dogs or indoor cuddly smaller dogs. Do your homework. The decision to bring a pet puppy into your home is a huge decision.

What color or appearance do you want in your puppy? Many do not care but if you do, again, do your homework. The American Kennel Club does a good job defining each breed. Don't follow the leader and choose a breed that seems to be the breed of the month or whatever is popular. Do your homework.

How large do you want your puppy to be when he or she becomes a fully grown adult dog? Do you have your own home and property or do you rent? If you are a renter I suggest a smaller dog. It will be easier to find a willing landlord if you have a smaller dog.

You will want to have your children involved in caring for the family pet. It will teach them responsibility and bonding with the puppy which will make a big difference as the dog grows to adulthood. For smaller children their involvement can be as simple as selecting dog food while shopping, assisting with a shampoo or helping out when it is time to feed the puppy.

As the adult you are the key to teaching your children how to relate to and to take good care of their puppy. As soon as puppy joins you set rules for the family and especially the children regarding puppy care and individual responsibilities as well as how to treat a dog, what to do and what not to do. Take the leadership position and stay firm.

Please know that a great is a trained pet. This means crate training and hopefully obedience training. How far you go with training your dog will depend on your expectations of your pet.

Making good choices when choosing a pet can change your quality of life and provide a fun life for your pet as well. Bad choices lead to pets being let loose on the street or becoming another statistic down at the Humane Society. Make your choice a great choice for you, your pet and your family.

Bill Beavers is with http://www.CarryMyDog.com and looks forward to your visit to this informative website. We know you will benefit from the information. You will find top quality dog crates, pet carriers, pet strollers, dog harnesses, pet playpens and much more. Deep discounts on many products. Http://www.carrymydog.com is a excellent place for improving your pet's quality of life and simplifying yours. All the best...

How Your Children Can Help Take Care Of The Family Pet

Many people hold the belief that every child needs a dog. Though this article is not about the benefits of dogs to children, it is about how children can help dogs. When children are young, they often express a desire to their mommies that they want to help. They want to be a big kid and help mom with the dishes, the laundry, and even taking care of the dog! Here are a few ways children can help care for the family pet.

First and foremost, it is important to know the age appropriateness of tasks for children as they are related to caring for their pets. Toddlers are often very willing to help, but partly because of their size, and mainly due to their age, they simply cannot help the way "big kids" can. So, how can toddlers help? They can help feed and water the dog. Simply get two plastic cups, divide your dog's dinner portion between the two cups. Take your toddler to the food bowl and show them how to pour the food into the dish. Then go ahead and do the same thing with the water. Young children love this, and they really feel like they are helping mommy! Also, if your toddler is gentle enough, you can hand them a doggie brush and they can help you groom your dog's coat. Taking the dog on walks with the stroller is also an excellent way your child can help.

For children who are still young, mainly from about 4 to 7 years of age, you can gradually increase their responsibility. Children of this age are able to pour the food and water into the dishes, they can groom the pet on their own, and they can begin helping you bathe your dog by handing you the shampoo, or by gently spraying the water over the dog as you hold him still.

Once your kids reach older ages, they are able to help in many more ways. They can clean up pet accidents in the house, they can usually (depending on your child's maturity) be responsible for feeding and watering your pooch, take him or her out to do their business in the yard, or even depending on your dog's size and temperament, bathe them as well.

Once your kids become teenagers, they should be responsible enough to feed and water the dog, take them out on walks daily, give them baths, and they may even be able to take Fido to the vet for their annual routine check-up.

It is always a joy to allow your kids to grow up with a dog. If your children express interest in helping take care of your pet, let them! Consider the age appropriateness of their tasks, and they will love it! To young children, responsibility is fun. Use this as a learning experience, and you and your children will be able to bond with the family pet as you all bond together!

Article provided by Discount Pet Mall a site featuring dog beds, elevated dog feeders and pet carriers.

Pet Adoption Might the Best Thing To Do for You and Your Family

Pet adoption just might be the best thing you can do for yourself and your family So many pets are homeless these days. The Humane Society of the United States, says an 8 to 10 million cats and dogs enter animal shelters annually. And in conjunction with this 4 to 5 million cats and dogs are being euthanized by these shelters. These figures don't include those in small, local and home-based shelters you see at the Petco's or PetSmart's in your local communities. There are also animal rescue organizations that take abused and abandoned animals.

The most common reason that an animal shelter can hear from pet parents surrendering their pets is that they are moving. And in this economy it's a sad fact that the numbers are growing as people lose jobs, homes and they can't, in many cases, afford to treat these pests properly and surrendering them is the last option in these sad, sad circumstances.

Notwithstanding behaviour problems are also other reasons for giving up a pet. Too much barking, chewing everything, too hyper or aggressiveness of the pets are the common cited behaviour problems cited. Any way you look at it the end result is that we have too many pets up for adoption or homeless in general.

Pet Adoption as the Solution

The first thing we need to address is to get rid of the myths surrounding pet adoption in general and the quality of pets that are available. Animal shelters, unlike what these myths say, have healthy animals. Shelters often have as much information from previous owners to determine what kind of vaccination has already been provided. Aside from medical care investigation, shelters also provide the necessary treatments and will spay or neuter the animals before being adopted to prevent a recurrence of the current situation in the future.

Pet adoption is taking responsibility for an animal put up for adoption due to the circumstances mentioned above. With pet adoption, these pets get a chance in finding the appropriate, caring and life long home for them. Aside from this humane chance we are giving to man's best friends, there are also benefits from adopting animals.

Some of the benefits are: According to http://www.sciencedaily.com, much going research proves that pet parents have lower blood pressure, less anxiety, and experience lifts in their depression. A study proved that with aa little as 10 minutes, a pet can lower blood pressure significantly.

Actually, senior citizens, who are great pet adoption candidates, actually need less medical attention. Not only are the elderly deriving benefits from pets. Children exposed to pets during their first year of life have a lower frequency of many childhood maladies.

However you look at it Pet adoption should never be done without prior though and planning. There are numerous reasons why pets are being surrendered to shelters and rescue groups, most common reason is not thinking the decision through about getting a pet and then failing to the understand the responsibility that taking care of pets requires.

This is just the first in a series of missives about pet adoption. Here's a little blog about pet adoption that might be interesting http://budurl.com/Adoptapet and http://www.petfinder.com/blog/

Look for more shortly about pound puppies and pound kitties

Bill Joyce

Bill Joyce Been a pet owner and animal adopter for years. Pound puppies and pound pets are the best. Atlanta, GA for more info please visit http://budurl.com/Adoptapet

Family Pets - 7 Tips for Choosing an Age-Appropriate Family Pet

Even though your kids want a pet and promise to take care of it, it doesn't necessarily mean they are mature enough to handle the responsibilities of pet ownership. Pets offer companionship and teach children important life lessons about friendship and responsibility, however, some pets are better than others for certain ages and lifestyles. Following are 7 tips for choosing an age-appropriate pet for your family:

Choose a social pet Consider choosing an animal that has already been socialized and knows how to behave around children, such as an older cat or a dog with a history of getting along well with young children. Families with small children should be wary of bringing home a new puppy or kitten since baby animals require extra care and are more prone to scratching and playful biting.



Learn about breeds. Using dogs as an example, it's important to know that some breeds, such as Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers, are traditionally gentle and friendly and, thus, offer a great choice for families with small children. Find information on different breeds online or at the library. Ask veterinarians or friends with similar pets about their experiences. Determine if you can accommodate the type of pet based on their exercise, space and attention requirements.



Practice first. If you have never owned a dog before, be sure to do a trial run with a relative or a friend's dog before committing to the real deal. This way, you can make sure your kids are capable of tackling the responsibilities of caring for a pet.



Teach behavior. Show your kids how to act appropriately around animals, such as how to handle their new pet without squeezing, dropping, or disturbing the animal. Remind them to always wash their hands after handling any animal. Never leave a small child alone with a dog or cat until you know the pet is trained to stay calm. Remind children to ask the owner before approaching animals they don't know.



Consider your schedule. Think about how much space you have inside and outside your home to accommodate a pet, how often you are home, and if you have time to devote to feeding, walking and cleaning up after a pet. This will help you determine if you want a pet that needs a lot of attention, or if you want a pet that requires minimal interaction. Also consider any allergies of family members before bringing a pet home.



Be prepared. Discuss the pet's needs and type of care required and try to have all the equipment ready in your home before the new pet arrives.



Clean up potential hazards. When bringing a pet into your home, you will need to pet-proof it as you have childproofed your home, such as removing plants that are poisonous if ingested and securing electrical cords so the pet won't chew on them.

Following are age-appropriate pet recommendations:

Ages 3 to 5: Consider a guinea pig for preschoolers. Guinea pigs are gentle, like to be held and rarely bite.


Ages 6 to 10: Consider "shelf pets" for elementary-age kids, such as fish, mice, hamsters and gerbils.


Ages 10 to 13: Consider rabbits, dogs and cats for tweens.


Ages 14 and up: Consider a bird or fish for teenagers. These low maintenance options are great for older kids who are busy with school and extracurricular activities.

Following are age-appropriate pet chores:

Ages 3 to 6: Play with the pet while supervised, help pick up pet toys and wipe up spills caused by the pet.


Ages 7 to 10: Feed and brush the pet. If the pet is a dog, this age group can help walk the dog.


Ages 10 and up: Clean a cage, walk a dog, empty a litter box, bathe a pet and help give medications.

Hilary Basile is a writer for MyGuidesUSA.com at http://www.myguidesusa.com, you will find valuable tips and resources for handling life's major events. Whether you're planning a wedding, buying your first home, anxiously awaiting the birth of a child, contending with a divorce, searching for a new job, or planning for your retirement, you'll find answers to your questions at MyGuidesUSA.com

Find parenting tips and resources at http://becomingaparent.myguidesusa.com