0

5 Ways To Take Great Selfies With Your Pets

Every year, the average person takes hundreds of selfies on their phones. They are taken with friends, with family members and even with pets. With the USA being home to tens of millions of pets, there is no shortage of pet selfies being taken and shared throughout the internet.

There are even online sites that can help you turn these pet selfies into great pieces of art. For example, Instapainting might be a great choice to consider. Of course, before any of that, you need to capture the photo. Unfortunately, getting them to sit still for a photo is never simple, so getting the perfect photo is easier said than done.

Thankfully, there are some ways to ensure they turn out good. With that in mind, here are 5 great ways to take awesome selfies with your pets.

Don’t Be Afraid to Use Treats

When in doubt, using treats to get a pet to do what you want is a tried and true method. While it shouldn’t be solely relied on (as proper training is often preferred), it can work in a pinch, especially when you want to get some selfies. Simply showing your pet that you have a treat should get them to come right to you and do what you want.

In addition to treats, you could also consider using toys. For example, if you (or someone else) holds up a toy behind the camera, you can often better control the gaze of your pet. This can be a double-edged sword, however, as they also might want to go and play instead of sit and take pictures. Either way, it is worth a try if you are struggling to keep the focus of your pet.

Do it When They Are Calm or Tired

We have all been around calm pets, and we have all been around ones that are going a little wild. There is a good chance that 10 out of 10 times you will choose trying to take a picture with the calm one. A pet that is all over the place and full of energy will be next to impossible to get a good selfie with.

If your pet is hardly ever calm or relaxed, consider tiring it out first. A nice little bit of playing or a long walk is often the perfect recipe for a tired dog. When the dog is tired out, it will generally be more willing to work with you on taking a few pictures. Of course, be sure to do it quickly to ensure they can get back to resting after all of the playing they just did.

Make Sure They Are Comfortable

When taking pictures with your pet, it will be far easier to do it when they are comfortable. If you try and force them into a certain pose or position, it could make them less than excited and could agitate them. In addition to being simply a good thing to do, if your pet is comfortable, they will likely put up less resistance to getting their picture taken.

If you do what the pet does, instead of forcing it to do what you do, it becomes much easier to get the best photo possible. If they are laying down, go take a picture with them there rather than picking them up and trying to get one of your holding them. Make it as easy as possible for them, and you will often be rewarded with a fantastic selfie.

Be Patient

Patience is important when trying to get a good photo. It takes time to focus the camera and to make sure both you and the pet are in the frame. Also, ensuring your pet is looking at the camera and looking presentable can be a journey in and of itself. Patience isn’t always easy, but it is a key when it comes to getting that perfect shot.

The attention span of your dog or cat is likely much less than you, so they will be unable to focus as long as you will. Because of this, you need to be patient. Don’t get upset or frustrated at your pet simply because they want to play. Of course, if your pet simply isn’t in the mood and isn’t willing to work with you even after trying for some time, it’s best to simply try again in a few hours or another day.

Consider Using Natural Light

One of the most important things of taking a great selfie, whether with your pet or not, is the lighting. You want lighting that is flattering, but still bright enough to illuminate the subjects of the photo. While artificial light has gotten pretty good, nothing beats natural light. It is soft, not distracting and can often make you look much better.

In addition to making sure the photo looks good, using natural light is better for your pet. If you use a ton of artificial lighting, or a bright and jarring flash, it can hurt your pet’s eyes, as well as scare or startle them.

In conclusion, the tips included in this blog post will help make sure that the selfies you take with your pet are high-quality and come out just the way you want them.

0

Complete Guide of Mini Australian Shepherd – Facts You Need to Know

Is this breed active and intelligent? Are they also loyal and hard-working dogs? Well, the Mini Australian Shepherd is quite popular for these very reasons. The lively energy of this particular breed is why you’re seeing them everywhere.

Originally bred for the purpose of farming, Mini Shepherds were high-spirited companions for many families in America. And they still are, but not for farming anymore.

It’s a herding breed that’s very fond of human attention, interaction, and appreciation. The dogs are full of joy while also being easy to maintain and care for.

If you’ve read this far, then you’re obviously considering adopting a Miniature Australian Shepherd. I say you adopting because it’s the more responsible and even humane thing to do in this day and age. And here’s why adopting pets is a better idea.

Mini Australian Shepherd – What Is It?

It’s a little known fact that Mini Aussie Shepherds are also called Miniature American Shepherds. Whatever you wish to call them, the breed is incredibly athletic, loyal, and smart. And it’s only for the past few years that these herding canines have become very popular as pets.

In comparison to a full-sized Australian Shepherd, the mini version is way smaller. The former has a height of 18 inches and weight between 40 and 60 pounds. Sometimes even higher! As for the miniature kind, these dogs are between 14 and 18 inches in height. And their weight is not more than 40 pounds maximum.

What’s more is that the color of the mini breed’s eyes varies a great deal. Their eyes can also be marbled and mismatched in the shades of brown, hazel, and bright blue. As for the color of the mottled coats, this includes white, black, blue-gray, or red.

Mini Australian Shepherd Origin

The breeding of Mini Aussie Shepherds started in North America around 1968. The program included small Australian Shepherds. Mini Australian Shepherd breeders, back in the days, bred the Aussie Shepherds down in size. And this gave rise to the smaller version, which continues to exist in the 21st century.

And even after so many decades, the Miniature Shepherds look like their larger, original Australian ancestors. Without sacrificing their true character, instinct, and ability.

It’s the Miniature Australian Club of the United States of America that is the major organization or community, whatever you call it, that petitioned the AKC to include this particular breed in their list. And the petition was accepted on the condition that the miniature dog changes its name with no reference to its native Australian Shepherd history.

So this means that the official name of the breed by the AKC is Miniature American Shepherd.

Mini Australian Shepherd Short Description

The coat is of medium-length and the color red or blue merle/black or red tricolor. However, in every scenario, the dog has white markings. Sometimes tinged with tan as well.

On closer inspection, the hair present around the canine’s ears is never white. Their coat is either slightly wavy or straight. Along with feathering behind their legs as well as a mane plus frill circling around his/her neck.

What about the fur on the dog’s head? It’s shorter over here and over at the front of the forelegs and the outside of the ears. Then comes the length of the forelegs and hindlegs. Both lengths are the same. With a clean-cut, flat skull shape and compact, oval feet. With lips that don’t hang loose over their lower jaw.

Also Known As…

• Miniature Aussie Shepherd
• Miniature American Shepherd
• Mini Australian Shepherd
• Mini Aussie
• Teacup Aussie Shepherd
• Teacup Australian Shepherd
• North American Miniature Australian Shepherd
• North American Shepherd
• Mini Aussie Shepherd

Mini Australian Shepherd Temperament

Probably what you might want to know first and foremost is if the breed’s easygoing? The answer, fortunately, is a big, fat YES. Mini Aussie Shepherd puppies are perpetually fun-loving little creatures. They’re also affectionate, loyal, and courageous. And with active kids, they make excellent companions.

You can view them as devoted guardians and furry friends. And look forward to their very attentive, agile, and lively nature. Also, the breed is extremely eager to sweep you off your feet, metaphorically of course. They love to please. And have a 6th sense when it comes to finding out what you, as his/her owner, really want.

Since these North American Shepherds are so intelligent, training them is an incredibly easy task. But please note that the breed becomes destructive, anxious, and nervous when left alone too many times or too much.

Much like any other breed, Mini Aussie Shepherds demand a sufficient amount of physical and mental stimulation. Otherwise, they tend to get wreckful. It’s commonly known as separation anxiety.

The breed likes to be occupied and busy. All thanks to their active, very intelligent DNA. This implies that they get bored very easily. No wonder it’s so important to incorporate socialization skills into such breeds from puppyhood. It’s fundamental to keep them from becoming unnecessarily suspicious toward strangers.

Some Miniature Aussie Shepherds even nip the heels of unknown people just for herding them. So you have to train them to let them know that herding humans isn’t acceptable behavior.

As for those who allow their mini companions to work small stock, they’ll tell you how quietly they get the job done. So the breed, for the most part, doesn’t have a reputation for being aggressive.

As long as you stand your ground as the pack leader at all times. You don’t have to worry about behavioral problems taking control. This even prevents Small Dog Syndrome.

Mini Australian Shepherd Size – How Tall and Heavy Are They?

Weight and Height

• Toy weight is between 7 and 20 pounds. That’s 3 to 9 kgs.
• Miniature weight is between 15 and 35 pounds. That’s 6 to 16 kgs.
• Toy height is between 10 and 14 inches. That is between 26 and 36 cm.
• Miniature height is between 13 and 18 inches. That is between 33 and 46 cm.

A stocky Toy is more likely to weigh higher than a slender Mini. So there does exist an overlap in terms of weight.

But How Big Is A Mini Aussie Shepherd?

You already know that the miniature version is comparatively much smaller than the standard Aussie Shepherds, right? But how big is a Mini Australian Shepherd full grown? The answer is anywhere between 13 and 18 inches in height. That is the length from the ground to their shoulders. And the weight is around 15-35 pounds.

It goes without saying that males, no matter the breed, are larger in comparison to females. So it’s okay for me to claim that the breed isn’t so miniature after all. These herding canines are nearly 20 to 35 pounds smaller when compared to regular Aussie Shepherds.

As for the modern version of Miniature Australian Shepherds, the size varies. It all depends on how these creatures are bred. Speaking of which…

Miniature Australian Shepherd Appearance

The breed’s appearance, once again, is based on how the dog is bred. Puppies that come from Mini Aussie Shepherd’s ancestors are sure to look just like the smaller size of the original, standard breed.

Then there are those that are bred by using the method of dwarfism. With oversized heads and comparatively shorter legs.

The next is crossbreeding, where pups inherit a combination of physical characteristics from either the male or female parent.

Coat Color and Type

One of the things that this particular breed is so popular for is their beautiful coat. Many breeders strive to replicate this physical trait. But it’s only a part of the Mini American Shepherd.

As for Mini Aussie Shepherds, they can be red, black, blue merle, or red merle. On top of that, the gorgeous-looking dogs have white and/or tan markings.

Now let me disclose a fact that’s not quite known. Mini Aussies that don’t fall in the category of Mini American Shepherds also possess the distinctive colored coats I’ve just mentioned. With brown or blue eyes. And sometimes, you’re also likely to come across those that have one brown and one blue eye.

Common Health Problems Associated with Miniaturization

These are miniaturized canines after all, right? That means greater chances of developing the following medical conditions…

1. Disc Disease

Dwarfed or miniaturized dogs are naturally susceptible to Disc Disease. This condition causes the early deterioration of the spinal discs. That are responsible for absorbing shock. So, as the four-legged creature, grows older, the spinal discs fail to function properly. The outcome of this is the spine and neck losing their ability to absorb even daily activity-related impact.

Such a condition, needless to say, is very painful for dogs. That even moving the neck and body becomes an agitating experience. Hindleg paralysis is a common health concern among mini breeds. And now you know why.

2. Patellar Luxation

It involves kneecap dislocation, thus giving rise to a limp on either one or both legs. Mostly, it’s the affected leg.

Plenty of miniaturized dogs are more inclined to developing Patellar Luxation. But this is more common among inbred dogs. The practice of inbreeding, unfortunately, still exists. Just so that these breeders can achieve mini, hence “more adorable” and “cuter” specimens of larger canines.

3. Fragile Bones

In comparison to standard breeds, mini dogs have smaller, thus more fragile bones. This just means that you, as a caring and loving pet parent, should be extra careful. Especially when it comes to handling your Mini Aussie Shepherd.

You have to make sure that you don’t step on them accidentally. This means keeping them away from homes that have small children. Every member of the family should understand this fact about them. So they know how exactly to care for and handle the dog.

Even though the breed looks like cute, adorable, snuggly teddy bears. Know that they’re actually extremely delicate little creatures.

Miniature Australian Shepherd Grooming and Shedding

The dogs have a long, shaggy double-layered coat. And that paves the way for plenty of shedding. So during shedding season, make it a point to brush your pet on a daily basis. As for the rest of the year, brushing once a week should suffice. Meaning it keeps the double coat from matting or tangling.

And this double-layered coat of mini Aussie Shepherds is weather-proof. So they feel warm and comfortable, no matter the climate.

Here’s an interesting fact you might want to know. Miniature Australian Shepherds that come from Miniature Poodles tend to shed less. These dogs are popularly called Aussiedoodle.

Miniature Australian Shepherd Price

In the case of Mini Aussies Shepherd puppies, the price is anywhere between $600 and $900. The cost can reach $1200-$2000 as well, but that’s for show quality pups.

Generally speaking, the price factor is based on the following…

• The value of the litter’s parents.
• The availability of puppies where you live.
• And the care those pups that are available have received. For example, the costs of vaccinations, registration, deworming, neutering/spaying, etc.

Just make sure you buy from a professional, reputable, and humane breeder. Avoid backyard breeders at all costs!

Miniature Australian Shepherd – Other Factors That Matter

Living Conditions

The breed can thrive in apartments as well. As long as he/she receives the daily share of physical exercise. The dogs are moderately active. And are quite satisfied running around in a small backyard.

Also, Mini Aussie Shepherds do quite well in colder weather conditions.

Exercise

Daily walks are a must and long one at that. They are energetic four-legged creatures that love to be active. So you have to incorporate lots of vigorous exercise into their everyday routine. Particularly if you want your pet to be healthy and happy.

Well, to be honest, this is not optional but compulsory with all dogs, irrespective of the breed.

Life Expectancy

The straightforward answer – around 12 to 13 years.

Size of Litter

Anywhere between 2 and 6 puppies.

Miniature Australian Shepherds – Why You See Them Everywhere?

The thing about mini Aussie Shepherds is that they’re not so famous because of pop culture. As was the case with the dog breeds Dalmatian and Balto. Both of these breeds flourished after the release of movies like 101/102 Dalmatians (the first one came out in 1996 and its sequel in 2000). Along with Balto, which released in the year 1995.

As for the rise of Miniature Aussie Shepherds, it’s their exceptional looks and personality that is held responsible. Even the whole concept of dog breeding contributes to the popularity of this particular breed.

The name itself welcomes so much controversy and confusion. Miniature American and Australian Shepherds are one and the same. Did you know that? If not, then now you do. Many pet owners use the names interchangeably. And the distinction is only a matter of documents. Let me explain below.

Professional breeders who really care about keeping a check on the bloodline and ancestry of their dogs get them registered. However, not every one of these registries agrees on a single name for the dog. For instance, in America itself, AKC considers Aussie Shepherds as an entirely separate dog breed. And refers to them as the Miniature American Shepherds.

Now keep in mind that AKC is a genuine, purebred registry. One that sanctions canine events, such as National Dog Show as well as Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. Then there’s another American dog registry that still refers to the breed as Miniature Australian Shepherds.

For entering the AKC, the breed should be represented by the club that’s in charge of its protection and preservation. When the ownership across the country hits a certain limit, then the breed passes through multiple membership phases.

For the dog breed to be completely AKC recognized; a process that usually takes no less than 5-7 years. Anyway, for that, it gets sorted into 1 of 7 categories. This includes toy groups, sporting groups, etc. And for the Mini Aussie Shepherds, there’s the herding group of course.

The first official American club for this particular breed was the Miniature American Shepherd Club of the USA. And it started in 1990. The very first stage for AKC recognition began in 2012. And it was only in 2015 that the breed was officially recognized in the US.

The mere AKC certification itself was proof that Mini Aussie Shepherds were gaining momentum. And once fully recognized, its popularization grew by leaps and bounds. Thus, giving rise to many Mini Australian Shepherd breeders. But, unfortunately, this also includes those that are only concerned with making huge profits.

These are backyard breeders who don’t take into account pedigree. They simply want to climb on the financial bandwagon.

Moving on, with AKC certification, more and more Mini Aussie Shepherds started to make an appearance in popular dog shows and events. And with that grew their fan base. This saw an increase in the demand for miniature Aussies as high as 50-percent. And the trend, no doubt, has been upsurging ever since.

The simple fact that you can keep the mini version of large Australian Shepherds in an apartment is compelling enough for more and more pet lovers to choose this particular breed. As long as your dog is receiving his daily dose of exercise, mental stimulation, and attention. You can get one even if you’re living in a big city.

But it’s not just their apartment-friendly size that people find the most appealing. These dogs have strikingly good looks too. After all, the wide variety of colors Mini Aussie Shepherds come in is quite eye-grabbing. Even their eyes are distinctively colored. On top of that, their nature is heartbreakingly cute, loyal, energetic, and loving.

The dog breed, no doubt, is hyper-intelligent. Apart from being small-statured, adorable, and also easy to look after.

However, they are herding canines that demand a sufficient level of mental and physical stimulation. So buy or adopt a Mini Aussie Shepherd puppy only if you can dedicate time and energy. And also love and attention. Because if you do, these dogs are definitely going to love you the most. Along with bringing tons of joy into your life.

And if worried about training them, don’t be. Because the breed is very easy in terms of training. The dogs pick up on almost everything. You simply have to spend time with them. And they’ll do exactly what you do.

Owning A Mini Australian Shepherd As A Family Pet – Is It A Wise Decision?

Yes, they’re excellent family pets. There’s no doubt about that. You already know by now that the mini Aussie is available in all types of sizes. And that means you can choose one that’s the most suitable for your lifestyle, home, personal preferences, and the like.

Miniature Australian Shepherds are comparatively smaller-sized creatures. This makes the dog breed certainly more manageable. Than, for instance, a full-grown, full-sized Aussie. But don’t mistake that into thinking you can keep them as house dogs. Meaning you can just let them be without any form of physical and mental stimulation.

They are great with people only as long as they’re happy and healthy. Otherwise, every breed, not just this one, is bound to turn aggressive. So if you can’t make time for your pet. Then I highly recommend you select another more-manageable dog breed.

The End

Without the shadow of a doubt, Miniature Aussie Shepherds are loving, loyal creatures. When properly socialized, they’re not suspicious around strangers.

But keep in mind the health conditions often associated with such miniaturized dog breeds. There may be certain risks involved. And I’m not saying that to discourage you from getting this dog. But only so that you’re aware of the possible medical conditions. So you can care for your adorable, precious pet more responsibly.

Also, if this breed is not for you, meaning if it’s not small enough for you, then consider the following…

• Chihuahua
• Miniature Border Collie
• Mini St. Bernard
• Miniature Rottweiler

All in all, the Mini American or Australian Shepherd is a gorgeous and loving dog. It can be a purebred Aussie or an Aussie-cross. The former is a canine that has been bred selectively for being the miniature version of the original, standard Australian Shepherd size.

0

Best Way to Setup a Bearded Dragon Enclosure Habitat

One might find it difficult to set up a bearded dragon enclosure habitat as there may be many challenges encountered. There are many various factors to put into consideration when setting up the habitat for a bearded dragon. Some of these factors include decoration, size of the tank, lighting, and many others.

In essence, it is easy to recreate a bearded dragon’s desert habitat even without previous experience. And yet such recreation would still be inexpensive.

This article provides wholesome insight on the bearded dragon tank. It provides readers with enough information on the subject and putting the tank together to be perfect.

After reading this guide, you can seamlessly raise bearded dragons without hassle or stress.

Choosing a Habitat for a Bearded Dragon

Most people choose a simple aquarium for their bearded dragon enclosure. It is easy to see why a bare aquarium is a popular choice. It is easy to clean, it works flawlessly for a bearded dragon, and is relatively cheap.

Size

The most significant factor when choosing a tank for a bearded dragon is the size. Many people often make the mistake of starting with a small tank for their bearded dragons.

In reality, it is cheaper and better to once and for all allocate money for a tank that will not require an upgrade in the long run. 

Below is a guide to selecting the right size of tank for your bearded dragon:

• Adult Bearded Dragons: 48” x 18” x 24”, sixty – eighty gallons
• Juvenile Bearded Dragons: 36” x 18” x 16”, forty gallons
• Baby Bearded Dragons: 30” x 12” x 12”, twenty gallons

In terms of layout, height is less essential than width and length. Thus tall tanks are considered “wasted” space because bearded dragons are not passionate climbers.  So it is advisable to spend more on the length and width of the tank.

Material

Just as we earlier mentioned, the top choice for most people is a glass aquarium. However, some people love to construct their habitat from wood. 

Those who want to make a DIY from wood are advised to keep the temperature level in check because the temperature may go higher than expected. The reason for this is that glass retains less heat as compared to woods. 

Bearded Dragon Substrates

The substrate must be present in your bearded dragon’s enclosure habitat. Bearded dragons love to spend time rummaging and digging around the substrate in the habitat.

When you want to choose a material for the bearded dragon’s substrate, you must abide by the following guidelines:

Absorption: choose a highly absorbent substrate; that is, it can absorb moisture and other dirt. Else, there would be a need to replace and clean other enclosure materials more than necessary.

Hygienic: choose an easy to clean substrate that will help to preserve the excellent health of your bearded dragon

Cost: you will have to go for an affordable substrate. You do not want to spend all your cash only on a substrate for the habitat of your bearded dragon. After all, no matter the quality, you are still going to use many substrates throughout the lifespan of your pet.

Edible: Bearded dragons love digging; it is almost impossible to prevent them from digging the substrate and even eating some of it.

All you need to do is ensure that the substrate material can be easily digested to prevent any serious health issue if the bearded dragons swallow the substrate.

We recommend Zilla Reptile Carpet as a top pick for bearded dragon’s habitat. This is because it is safe for the dragons, easy to clean, and also affordable.

Other top choices of substrates are newspaper, ceramic, non-adhesive shelf liner, and tiles. Whatever choice you make, ensure that you avoid any form of particle substrate. Substrates like gravel, mulch, and sand are famous for causing an impact that can result in the death of your bearded dragon.

The Landscape of the Habitat

Asides from digging, your bearded dragons also loves to do a lot of climbing too: they spend much time doing this. So it would be best if you positioned branches all through the enclosure to allow your pet to reach various sectors of the heat gradient in the habitat.

Make sure that the branches are dry and free of sap. They should also be broad or large enough to give enough support to your pet.

It is equally important that you give your bearded dragon a reptile hide. A reptile hide is placed in an enclosed place in the habitat such that your pet can hide there away from prying eyes.

As the dragon grows, there is a need to replace the items used for the hiding place. However, if your bearded dragon does not seem to like the hiding place you created for them, you might consider switching the location until you find a spot that the pet would enjoy.

There has to be a region in the habitat that has shade. This can be created using non-toxic plant life that has been thoroughly washed with water. The washing will make them void of any coated pesticide that may have been on them at the purchase point.

Note that the content and enclosure of the habitat must be designed to please your bearded dragon. So try to make the habitat as natural as possible.

Bearded dragon Lighting

Two primary components are crucial when you want to light your bearded dragon tank; they are a basking lamp and a UVB bulb.

Humidity

You must ensure an accurate level of humidity to provide a quality life for your bearded dragon. Mist your dragon at least once in a week.

Use a hygrometer to set the right humidity for the habitat according to the season.

Cleaning The Habitat

The best choice for cleaning the habitat is bleach because of its inorganic contents. Although, you have to dilute the bleach heavily before you use it. Make sure to clean thoroughly.

Mixing of Sexes

Male Bearded dragons are usually fierce in defending their territories, so they value their personal space. Thus, it is advisable to keep males away from each other and not in the same enclosure.

You can keep females together. However, they will also develop territorial behavior in the long run.

You do not want to lose your bearded dragons to death due to territorial behavior, so it is best to keep them separate once you notice aggressive behavior.

0

Therapy Cat – Certification & Cats Emotional Support Training

When it comes to cats, there is a very good chance that you had no idea that there was such thing as a therapy cat.  You’re probably wondering what exactly a therapy cat is, whether or not you can adopt one, how they actually help people, and whether or not you can train your cat to become a therapy cat?

What Exactly is a Therapy Cat?

To keep it as simple as possible, a therapy cat is going to be a cat that has been trained and certified to help all different ages of people ranging from youths to elders.  They provide a special type of human-animal interaction to comfort those who are in need of help while they are going through some type of emotional or physical complication.

While they have not been as common in the past, in recent years therapy cats have becoming a much more common type of pet, as it has been proven that they can work wonders.  In fact, it has been proven that a therapy cat can be beneficial to help you cope with:

• Physical illnesses in the disabled and elderly people
• Teenagers and other youngsters who are having behavioral problems
• Hospital patients who are in emotional distress

Other common places that you may find a therapy cat is going to be in drug and alcohol rehabilitation centers, common practice in care homes, juvenile detention centers and several other types of facilities as well.  This is because therapy cats are proven to significantly ease some of the pains that patients suffering from different health disorders are dealing with.  These can include suicidal depression, autism and even heart strokes.

You may be thinking that you are going to turn your cat into a therapy cat now.  Before you get too excited however, just know that therapy cats do have to be professionally certified after going through a complete training program, giving them the experience that they need and making them as reliable as possible.

How to Get a Therapy Cat

When it comes to cat therapy, it is going to work in one of two ways.  Kitties that have been deemed suitable for an isolated individual case, or a facility where they will be able to help a much larger number of people needing therapy.  Essentially, you can either opt to have a therapy cat as your personal pet, or you can benefit from the therapy cats that are helping those who attend the various institutions where the therapy cat has been assigned.

Where to Get a Therapy Cat

A certified therapy cat is going to be the personal pet of cat parents that were chosen to volunteer to help those in need.  Unfortunately, volunteering means that you will be spending months and sometimes even years in training, forking out all of the money for the course’s fees, certificates, exams, and even membership fees.  Due to this, you are pretty much never going to see a therapy cat that is available for sale or adoption from just about anywhere.

With that being said, if you are in the need for a therapy cat, there are going to be three different options that you will be benefit from the healing and comforting that a therapy cat provides.  Those three ways are:

• Visiting a facility where therapy cats have been assigned to help
• Get a prescription so that you will be able to get yourself your own therapy cat
• Take your kitten and have them trained so that they can be certified as a professional therapy cat

Knowing that there are only three ways to get a therapy cat may lead you to think that you will get your own cat certified.  However, turning a rescue or domestic cat into a certified therapy cat is not going to happen overnight, or come at a cheap price.  With that being said, it is going to be worth the cost and time commitment once you have done all the training and your cat has officially become a therapy cat. 

When it comes to therapy cats, they are not going to be your regular cat.  Therapy cats go through extensive training to become so helpful.  If you are in need of a therapy cat for your own personal use, you will need to speak with your doctor in order to get the prescription that is required to do so.  Just let them know why you feel you need a therapy cat to help you with your health condition and you will soon be on your way to recovery.

0

Eight Proven Benefits of Keeping Pets

There is no denial of the fact that owning a furry companion at home can have a significant amount of positive effect on your life. After all, what’s better than waking up to a cute creature welcoming you with sparkling eyes? We all are aware of the capacity of love a pet has for its owner. This remarkable capacity makes these creatures even more adorable and in demand. The benefits animals bring as pets can be countless. They improve every aspect of a person’s life, starting from their health to the future.

Let’s not forget the fact that these days, there are more pets in the home than children! Yes, you heard that right! Pets are loved by almost everyone, and their presence can literally make your day.

Below are some benefits of keeping pets at home.

They Can Change your mood

Whether you agree or not, but it has been proved through research that people who have pets tend to stay happier as compared to the ones who don’t. People who suffer from various diseases have a very less chance of developing depression if they have pets at their home. Pets cheer up your mood with their adorable little faces. Some pets like dogs are even trained in a special way to handle their owners who fall victim to anxiety attacks all of a sudden.

Pets are actually your Friends

Pets get familiar with their owners in no time and can actually be your friend. Pets like cats and dogs are a symbol of love and friendship. They like accompanying their owners everywhere, and a person never feels bored. If you are an introvert and have trouble reaching out to people and making friends, then don’t worry because you can start off with being friends with your pet. One of the biggest benefits of having pets is that you get attached to your house. In this way, you always want to come back home on time because you know that your pet would be waiting for you. Pets keep everybody happy, regardless of a person’s age. You could find a 90 years old individual playing with his pet in the park.

Pets Help to Build Your Social Connection

Pets can help you build up social connections with the people nearby. You might take your pet for a walk, and it will be attracted to another pet nearby. In this way, the owners will have time to chat with each other, and the pets will play nearby. You may start telling a story about your pet to the other person, and they start telling theirs. In this way, you will have an opportunity to socialize even more with others. You may also have noticed that whenever you go outside with your pet, people say Hello to you more often and share smiles. This is basically because they find the pets adorable.

They Give You a Lesson

Dealing with the loss of loved ones is one of the most difficult aspects of life and bitter reality. Every soul shall taste death, and that’s the truth that nobody wants to hear. Pets teach you a lesson in disguise that nothing is eternal at all, and both the animals and the humans have to say goodbye to this world one day. Owning a pet basically prepares a person to face the loss and be prepared for the loss of a loved one in the near future. Studies have shown that people who already have owned multiple pets before are better at dealing with their emotions than the ones who don’t have pets.

Build Up Responsibility

It’s too obvious that having a pet at home increases your responsibility. No matter what kind of pet you have, it will always require your attention. You will have to feed them timely, clean them, and go shopping for their food and many other things. This increased reasonability will actually teach you to be prepared for further responsibility in the future. This is especially beneficial for the children who are at an early age and learning the importance of responsibility and organized routine.

Source of Entertainment

Pets are a great source of entertainment in the house. They can keep you laughing for hours. Pets have the ability to sense a change in your mood and can distract you from your issues. Dogs are very sincere and go the extra mile to cheer up their owner’s mood. Pets like parrots can speak different words, and you can keep playing and listening to their words for hours and never get tired of it.

Keep your Home Secured

Pets like dogs, keep your home secured. They don’t need special training to secure your home. You only need to have good dog treats and knowledge of how to use them to your benefit.  If they see a stranger lurking anywhere near your home, they’ll alert you by starting barking. Moreover, you can even leave your house to a trained dog and go anywhere by just locking the house. You don’t have to worry about any potential burglars as the dog will alarm everybody else nearby if a person breaks in. Dogs have prevented many robberies in the past and continue to do so.

They Lower the Blood Pressure

Research shows that people who have pets have added health benefits because these creatures tend to keep your blood pressure from getting high. Pets keep you calm and prevent anxiety attacks. When you play with the pets, hormones like Serotonin and Dopamine increase in your body, and this results in a pleasing mood and improved immune system.

Pets require attention and love, and trust me; these are very small prices to pay for the significant amount of mental and physical health benefits these furry creatures bring to your life. So what are you waiting for? Hurry and welcome a pet into your family to add more colors and happiness to it. 

0

10 Facts You Didn’t Know About The English Golden Retriever

I bet you didn’t know this about the English Golden Retriever. They are the smallest of the Golden Retrievers. And between American and Canadian Golden Retrievers, they have a light coat. And that makes them easy to spot because the other two breeds are darker.

Even though Golden Retrievers are a very common dog breed all over the world. Especially in America since they rank third, in terms of popularity. You might not know the English Golden Retriever all that well.

Whether you agree or disagree with me, it’s always nice to test your knowledge. And here’s an informative list of the must-know facts about the English Golden Retriever!

The English Golden Retriever – 10 Fun Facts

1. English Golden Retrievers Are Not “English”

This dog breed is really a Scottish breed. Golden retrievers come from Scotland back in the 1800s. It’s when a cocker spaniel and a wavy-coated retriever had a litter of puppies.

Most shelters and breeders import golden retrievers from elsewhere, outside of their own country. Such as The Netherlands, Denmark, France, Ukraine, etc.

So why are they called English Golden Retrievers?

Well, the reason is quite simple. During the early 1900s, most distinguished dog shows were held in England. And guess who was a top-ranking champion in most dog shoes in Britain in England?

In America, and elsewhere, they were also known as the “English Champions.” And now it’s the 21st century and these Scottish cream-colored golden retrievers are recognized as English Golden Retrievers.

2. Golden Retrievers Are Expensive

The price of a golden retriever is way higher than most other dog breeds. The average price range of a golden retriever is between 500 to 2,000 dollars. And if you want a special shade of pale cream or gold, expect nothing less than 2,000 dollars and up. 

Taking care of this dog breed, medical expenses, food, grooming, etc. All these factors also weigh in. Golden retrievers are a champion breed. So their bloodline is rich which means they cost more.

If you’re looking to adopt a golden retriever, it will cost much less. The average price for adoption is between 350 to 600 dollars. For vaccination and other registrations, you may have to pay separately.

Buying a golden retriever puppy from a dog breeder is generally expensive. Make sure you research for reputable breeders in your area. Cheap and irresponsible dog breeders breed and sell cheap and sick puppies in order to make a profit.

One thing you should know about dog breeders. They might sell you a “rare” English Cream-Colored Golden Retriever at a higher price. Do not fall for that trap. Such golden retrievers are not rare.

Instead, look for dog breeders that talk to you more about the dog’s temperament and family history. There is no such thing as “Platinum-Imported Golden Retrievers.” There are golden retrievers that have a rich heritage and friendly temperament. 

Take a note of the dog breeder’s business information. Make sure you are given the proper certificates and documents of lineage. And also check up on the dog’s parents to ensure their health and well-being.

If you’ve ever heard or read about dog or puppy pounds, you’ll be more careful about buying a dog from a dog breeder.

3. English Golden Retrievers Are Cream-Colored (And Not White)

In comparison to Canadian and American Golden Retrievers, these are lighter but not white. English gold retrievers fall within in light shades. And the most common and long-standing of them all is the cream shade.

They can also be lightly-golden or beige, but they’re never white.

Some may even appear yellow at first sight. But you’d be interested to know that certain golden retrievers were “yellow” in the mid-1900s. This is because, according to the British Kennel Club, accepted yellow, but not light golden shades of retriever champions.

Later, when the BKC revised its standards, the light shades of golden were accepted.

4. English Golden Retrievers Can Quickly Become Overweight

Golden Retrievers are energetic and intelligent dogs. They are bred to be as active as hunters so they need plenty of mental and physical stimulation. Having said that, if they are overfed and if you do not get plenty of exercise, they will gain weight fast.

But the number one cause of obesity in English Golden Retrievers is over-feeding. Consult with a vet regarding your dog’s diet. Generally, you’re supposed to feed a certain amount of dry kibble based on your dog’s bodyweight.

The type of dry kibble depends on your dog’s health conditions. And here’s another effective tip to avoid overfeeding your dog. Do not leave food out in the open. It’s best to set up a proper timing to feed your dog and maintain his or her weight.

Here’s what you need to know about your dog’s diet.

Golden retrievers will eat whatever is laid out in front of them.  If you have a picky eater, there’s a great resource here on how to encourage your pooch to eat. You need to keep in mind their ideal diet as prescribed by a vet. But ideally, this should be between 2 to 3 cups of high-quality dog food.

In terms of nutrition, golden retrievers need more proteins and carbohydrates. Followed by healthy fats, fiber, and vitamins and minerals.

It’s important to observe what diet you choose for your dog. He or she can develop allergies to processed foods such as meats and corn. Even though they are high protein sources, steer clear from ingredients that cause abdominal distress.

Look for foods with natural preservatives that provide your dog’s daily nutrition. Such as vitamin E to keep their golden coat shiny and smooth. Protein and carbohydrates to keep up their active lifestyle. And fiber and healthy fats to ensure proper digestion and metabolism.

The average weight of an English golden retriever is about 55 to 75 pounds. Based on this number, their calorie intake (per day) is between 950 to 1300 calories. If you keep your dog more active throughout the day, you can consider increasing his or her calorie intake from 1,300 to 1,700 calories.  

Younger golden retrievers need fewer calories for proper growth and development than older adults.

5. English Golden Retrievers Shed A Lot

You should know that golden retrievers shed abundantly over the years. But the main shedding seasons are the spring and fall. A good way to reduce the volume of hair shedding is to daily brush your dog’s coat.

But if you have a golden retriever in your house, it’s best to make your peace with dog hair. It will stick to your clothes, the sofa, bed, and all over the carpet.

Here’s what you can do if you have a golden retriever that sheds a lot of hair.

Invest in rubber gloves so you can keep dry brushing your dog every day. Grooming is essential but that’s not a day-to-day solution. Using rubber gloves to remove dog hair from the sofa is also a good choice. You can use a lint remover to get rid of hair from sofas and beds.

Never let dog hair build up in your home. Daily cleaning your house to get rid of dog hair. And daily dry brushing your dog’s coat can save you a lot of trouble in the future.

Another important tip to avoid excessive hair shedding is grooming. Bathing a golden retriever once in 2 weeks or 30 days is perfect. You don’t want to overdo it as it can cause dry skin and dandruff. But using a chemical-free, natural ingredients shampoo can moisturize the skin. And nourish your dog’s coat reducing faster hair loss.

6. English Cream-Colored Golden Retriever Are Recognized by the AKC

It was in the past that the American Kennel Club didn’t accept cream-colored golden retrievers. But even now, even though they are considered “undesirable,” they are accepted.

Always keep in mind that cream-colored or not, golden retrievers are a world-renowned dog breed with a rich history. All their name has a fancy title and a light cream shade coat.

It’s easier to register your dog in the AKC with the correct documents. As a pet parent, you need to have these documents of your dog. So make sure you ask for the right registration papers when buying or adopting a new golden retriever.

When you compare the AKC to other countries, you’ll notice a bit of a difference in opinion. Countries like Canada, Australia, and Britan accept all gold or cream shades. But no red or mahogany shades are accepted for dog shows.

The National Golden Retriever Council of Australia uses the proper term for most golden retriever puppies. It goes something like this – “lustrous golden of various shades.”

7. Golden Retrievers Have Different Breeding Standards in America

American golden retrievers are slightly different in build than English golden retrievers. This doesn’t make either one of them any less of a golden retriever. But it’s important that you know the differences in dog breeding standards.

In the UK, male golden retrievers are 22 to 24 inches tall. And females are 20 to 22 inches tall.

In America, male golden retrievers are 23 to 24 inches tall. And females are 21.5 to 22.5 inches tall.

From this, it’s easier to deduce that shart English golden retrievers are more desirable in the UK than in America.

Even so, English golden retrievers are the third popular dog breed in America. German Shepherds and Labradors being the first two.

When it comes down to adaptation, being of their rice heritage, it’s rare to find a golden retriever in a shelter. So whenever you see one with his or her dark, beady eyes. Consider yourself lucky and adopt that beauty right away!

8. English Golden Retrievers Are Not Special, Health-Wise

In some places, English golden retrievers are considered healthier than standard golden retrievers. This is not true. They are just as susceptible to diseases such as dysplasia as the American or Canadian golden retrievers.

Dysplasia is oftentimes a genetic condition associated with improper hip growth. But in golden retrievers, elbow dysplasia is more commonly diagnosed. One of the top contributing causes of dysplasia is obesity.

It can be controlled using pain medication but dysplasia is a corrective condition. If it gets too serious, surgery to correct the defect may be necessary.

Another common disease is Osteochondritis Dissecans.

This is, again, related to the bone system. It is associated with the cartilage that protects the bone. If your dog has this condition, it means the cartilage is slowly separating from the bone. Causing pain, stiffness, immobility, and other symptoms.

Always do your research when you want to buy a golden retriever. If a genetic condition such as dysplasia is in the charts, a dog breeder must have the proper documents to show for it. This includes health certifications, the dog’s parents documentation, vaccination, etc.

Golden retrievers are also likely to experience cataracts early on. Old age in golden retrievers could also mean heart problems, types of cancer, or trouble with vision.

Golden retrievers are prone to skin allergies due to their long coat. This is also one of the reasons why their prevalent skin conditions may go unnoticed.

9. English Golden Retrievers Are Family Dogs

Golden retrievers are affectionate and balanced-tempered dogs. They are sociable and playful with everyone they meet. And their athletic build and feathered coat make them more amusing to play with.

So if you want a dog who’s friendly around and with kids. Who is peaceful with other dogs in the dog park. Who is very social and intelligent in terms of dog training. Then golden retrievers are the perfect match for you.

They have incredible energy when they’re young. This is up to 3 years, they will jump and romp with full power. This doesn’t mean they’re dangerous. But with the dog training techniques, they can be quite entertaining.

Make sure you train your golden retriever when he or she is still a puppy. Golden retrievers tend to look big even though they’re young. So it’s easier to train a golden retriever with a calm and settled temperament.

All this you can talk about with your dog breeder or adoption agency. Even though in adoption agencies, you won’t be able to get a golden retriever of your preference. It’s always good to discuss your requirements with a skilled professional.

Here is what you need to know about the English Golden Retriever…

They need mental and physical stimulation.

Golden retrievers were, initially, bred as hunting dogs. So they’re intelligent and athletic. And so, now, they will need a good amount of physical exercise. Not only that but also mental activities. Such as fetch in a park, hiding treats and commanding him or her to search it, certain training skills for tricks, etc.

It’s important to keep your dog mentally stimulated. And most importantly, taking your dog out for a walk is a must. Golden retrieves typically need 60 minutes of walking outside daily. You can also train them through puzzle toys, kongs, etc.

They are good therapy or service dogs

In terms of temperament and behavior, golden retrievers are pure gold! This means they are smart, loving, and most importantly, patient dogs. Even though they might look big and intimidating to kids. Once you pet a golden retriever, get ready to give him or her all your attention (and energy!).

This is one of the traits that makes golden retrievers excellent therapy dogs. You can train them to remain calm and friendly around new people. And they’re strong enough to support and protect others without causing a menace themselves.

10. English Golden Retrievers Need Early Socialization

It’s important to learn and understand how your dog feels in social situations. But what you also need to learn how to avoid risky situations. This means understanding what ticks your dog and makes him or her uncomfortable or restless.

A good way to deal with this, and not have it ruin your relationship with your dog, is socialization. I have already told you that golden retrievers are intelligent dogs.

This can make golden retrievers really obedient dogs. But it can also make them slightly out of control and very demanding. In which category your dog lies depends entirely on you.

Effective dog training techniques are 100% foolproof for behavior correction. But it can also lead to long-term transformations that your dog will love you for.

The best time to start socialization training is during your dog’s “teenage years.” This is a tough age for not only your dog but you as his parent. Once your pup is 2-3 years old, you can begin elevating their intelligence and responses.

Many golden retriever parents complain about their dog jumping up on other people. Even though such excitability is adorable in a golden retriever, it’s not always well-received and appropriate.

And if your English golden retriever is pushing you as a result of jumping up on you. Then you need to calm your dog down before it gets out of hand. This manner of greeting or affection may turn into aggression, and you won’t even realize when.

Is your English golden retriever barking a lot? A dog’s bark is his or her way to communicate with you. But while most people consider it ill-mannered or plainly as “noise.” You need to look at your dog’s body language while he or she is barking at you or elsewhere.

Based on the barks’ pitch, frequency, and duration, you can determine what your dog is thinking and feeling. And how you can prevent excessive barking especially in social situations.

General Care of Your English Golden Retriever

Nutrition

Whether you have a puppy, adult, or senior golden retriever. The first thing you need to think of is diet. High-quality dog food provides your dog with all the essential nutrition he or she needs.

And when it comes to giving your dog something extra, like treats. Then it’s best to feed your dog treats in moderation. As long as it’s within your dog’s daily calorie consumption, it won’t lead to obesity.

Grooming

After nutrition, the next step is grooming. English golden retrievers have a thick coat. And they are more likely to shed hair all throughout the year.  Most profusely during the spring and fall months.

To manage things better, dry brush your dog’s hair 2-3 times per week. Make sure you give your dog a bath 1-2 a month. And his or her nails should be clipped regularly as well. Bathing your dog get rid of dead and dry hair. But excessive bathing can lead to dry skin problems.

Exercise

You can really train your dog in agility and obedience more easily with plenty of daily exercise. Golden retrievers are great at taking commands and following them. And since they were previously bred for hunting, they’re are physically-fierce and very companionable.

While young and adult golden retrievers are more active, seniors might need to take things down a notch. Consult with a professional and make sure your dog is fit for strenuous activity.

Training

A golden retriever can easily become a nuisance if you don’t train him or her at all. Puppy training classes and socialization are key. It’s important to take your dog out for a walk to meet other neighborhood dogs.

Apart from this, making sure your dog listens to you and more importantly, responds to you. All these things make up for your entire relationship and bonding with your dog. So never skip out on training. It’s just as important as nutrition and exercise.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PxuOxpJx4W8

Final Thoughts

Aren’t English Golden Retrievers adorable? Such dogs possess a rare and confident personality. They look cheery and playful. They’re not clumsy or aggressive either. The ideal companion to have around in the house.

Whether you’re a family person or you need a companion to brighten your days. English Golden Retrievers are eager and friendly dogs to be around. Their personality is so light and affectionate.

And if you already have dogs at home, they love and are friendly around other dogs too. So you have nothing to worry about!

I bet after reading this informative article, you want to know more about English Golden Retrievers. Let me tell you now before it’s too late – what is left to know is for when you actually bring a Golden Retriever home. So what are you waiting for?

0

What’s A Good Lazy Dog To Buy?

Are you a dog-lover who is longing for the companionship of a dog, but you don’t have a huge garden for a dog to run around in, and you know that you will not have enough time to take your dog out for lots of exercise? Then you may be wondering what’s a good lazy dog to buy. 

There is nothing to beat that tongue hanging out, tail wagging furiously, to greet you as you walk through the door after a long, hard day. Your dog will not be all sulky and grumpy because you left him alone at home all day while you went out to work. Dogs are the most forgiving creatures.

So what do you do if you are longing for that furry friend, but you can’t spend hours walking him every day? There is a simple solution – a lazy dog!

On PerfectDogBreeds.com, you can read about the many different breeds of dogs, but let us try to narrow this down for those of you who are looking for that perfect, but lazy pooch.

What’s a good lazy dog to buy?

Many big breeds are extremely calm and docile, and are happy with only a short walk around the block two or three times a day.

1. The English BullDog may look fierce and angry, but nothing could be further from the truth. They love nothing more than lying around and doing absolutely nothing. They have a squashed up, flattened muzzle, a condition known as Brachycephaly. This often restricts their oxygen intake, resulting in a lack of energy and a need for lots of rest. 

2. The Saint Bernard is the epitome of a gentle giant. They were originally bred for helping and guiding people through the Swiss Alps, making them highly energetic. But the breed has evolved over the years, and you are now more likely to find them curled up in front of the fire in your living room than frolicking in the snow outside. 

3. The Great Dane, like the Saint Bernard, is really just an over-sized marshmallow. They are the most adorable, friendly dogs. Because of their enormous size, they can be prone to back problems, and sometimes develop painful bone deformities in their spinal column. Therefore they will often prefer a quiet, lazy life. 

4. The Greyhound is a racing dog, so you may be wondering why he is considered to be a lazy dog. Well, precisely because a Greyhound is such a fast runner, he can only run short distances. Because they are so lean, and have very short, thin coats, they cannot tolerate very cold temperatures for long and need to be taken out only for short walks. 

5. The Bernese Mountain Dog is an excellent choice if you are looking for a lazy dog. They are highly intelligent, and have a very faithful and loyal nature. They only need to be taken out for two or three walks a day. 

Of course there are also many smaller breeds of dogs. Let us look at a few lazy dogs that are smaller and therefore easier to manage if you live in a small apartment.

1. The Maltese Poodle can occasionally be quite a frisky little pooch, but will usually love nothing better than to laze on the couch and doze the day away. Maltese poodles are easy to train, and only need a few short walks a day.

2. The Shih Tzu adores being curled up on a lap. They are very quiet, calm dogs and don’t need much attention. Two short walks a day will be enough for them.

3. The Pug, like the English Bulldog, is brachycephalic, with its little squished up face. Therefore it also has limited energy, due to restricted breathing, and will be a perfect lazy dog.

4. The Chow Chow is an ideal family dog. They have a very loving and quiet nature, and are real ‘home bodies’. They will be quite happy indoors, with minimal exercise.

5. The Pomeranian is a perfect example of a dog whose bark is worse than his bite. These little dogs are known for their loud yapping, but they don’t need to run around very much and will be quite content with a lazy, indoor lifestyle.

These are a few of the most popular breeds of lazy dogs. Any of these will be your ideal pet if you don’t have much time to devote to looking after it. However, it is important to remember that even the laziest dogs still need daily walks and a certain amount of exercise.

0

What is Periodontal Disease in Pets?

Gingivitis is common in our dogs and cats and if not controlled it leads to periodontitis

According to the ‘2019 American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) Dental Care Guidelines for Dogs and Cats’ there is critical role vets and vet technicians play in client education and effective, preventive oral healthcare. It’s important for pet owners to understand that by maintaining their dog and cat’s oral health they will prevent the adverse effects and pain of periodontal disease. Our Healthy Smiles expert vet technicians work closely with clients to ensure they understand the ins and outs of oral health. They explain that the prevention of gingivitis is the same as its treatment: plaque removal and control.

Periodontal disease is infection and inflammation of the periodontium (the tissues that surround and support the teeth) due to plaque bacteria and the pet’s response to the bacterial insult. Gingivitis is common in dogs and cats and refers to inflammation of the gingiva. This will lead to periodontitis if not controlled.

Did you know that dental disease can cause more than just bad breath and tooth loss? Periodontal disease can cause liver, kidney, and heart problems.  With that in mind, prevention is key.  

According to the VOHC, studies have shown that dogs with severe periodontal disease have more severe microscopic damage in their kidneys, heart muscle, and liver than dogs with less severe periodontal disease.

Signs of periodontal disease 

Your dog or cat may lose their appetite or even drop food from its mouth while they eat. Their gums may be irritated and pet owners may notice bleeding gums.

• Red swollen gums
• Bad breath
• Discolored teeth
• Bleeding gums
• Cats will frequently stop eating, this is a sign that you need to visit the vet.

If you see any of these red flags, make an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as possible.

Treatment of periodontitis

Many pets, oftentimes middle-aged and older cats and dogs, require periodic professional scaling in addition to on-going plaque control.

For patients with periodontal disease, the treatment goal is the removal of plaque and calculus from the teeth. General anesthesia is necessary to provide access to the subgingival areas, where bacteria can contribute to local and sometimes systemic inflammation.

What about preventing periodontal disease? The good news is you can prevent periodontal disease in a healthy dog or cat with regular non-anesthetic dental cleanings. You will be able to determine with the help of your vet whether or not a non-anesthetic dental cleaning is appropriate for your dog or cat.

A veterinarian may not want to anesthetize a medically compromised pet, and they will instead use a non-anesthetic procedure to clean a dog or cat’s teeth. You can have your pet’s teeth cleaned without anesthesia whether they’re young and healthy or have health issues.

What about prevention?

There are steps and ways to manage gum disease in our dogs and cats.

Did you know that tartar starts to form within a few days on a tooth surface that is not kept clean? The rough surface even enhances plaque accumulation. Tartar is really difficult to remove without dental instruments but brushing helps prevent gum disease.

• If the surfaces of the teeth are cleaned weekly, the gums will stay healthy.
• Even pets need daily oral hygiene. There are many ways to positively train your dogs and cats to enjoy having their teeth brushed.
• The goal of non-anesthetic dental cleanings is to prevent periodontal disease. These anesthetic-free cleanings are not meant to replace dental surgery for pets with severe gingivitis, fractured teeth that affect the roots, abscesses, stomatitis, tumors, root exposures, and severe tooth mobility. These are maintenance cleanings for pets and they’re meant to complement anesthetic cleanings to prevent periodontal disease.
• Daily chewing activities can also be effective in maintaining oral health. Two recommendations are included below.
• Healthy Smiles recommends a veterinary examination of the mouth and teeth of your dog or cat. 

Three most common dental diseases in cats?

Stomatitis, gingivitis, and tooth resorption. According to Cornell’s Feline Health Center, tooth resorption is a process in which the tooth structure breaks down, beginning inside the tooth, and often progressing to other parts of the tooth. 

When the inflammation goes well beyond the mucogingival junction, it’s called stomatitis. This may be due to a variety of causes but it’s most commonly immune-mediated. Cats are often affected and will have a decreased appetite or anorexia, halitosis, dehydration, and blood-tinged saliva.

Full-mouth extractions or nearly full-mouth extractions for treatment of feline stomatitis have been shown to provide resolution of oral discomfort in approximately 80% of cases.

Top products recommended by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC)

The top products we include in the below list have a variety of benefits and may even reduce the tartar on your cat and dog’s teeth. You can also use these dental treats when brushing becomes a more challenging task.

Best overall for dogs: GREENIES Senior Aging Care Natural Dental Dog Treats

Best overall for cats:   FELINE GREENIES™ Dental Treats Oven Roasted Chicken Flavor

Top takeaway

Periodontitis is the most common disease of animals. Yet it often gets confused with gingivitis. Gingivitis refers to inflammation of the gingiva and this represents the earliest stages of periodontitis.

Periodontitis describes inflammation of not only the gingiva but other structures of the periodontium (ligaments, gingiva connective tissue, and alveolar bone forms the tooth socket). Once advanced periodontitis occurs the changes are difficult to reverse!

Dental experts at Healthy Smiles visit local pet businesses such as groomers, daycares, boarding facilities, and vet clinics to serve their clientele. We also make house calls for pet parents who value convenience or pets who require special care. We’re currently located in X, X, X.

<Maria: Do you want to add a boilerplate for Healthy Smiles here? Maybe we mention where there are locations/regions? Their audience looks broad, I didn’t see anything local.>

0

Is a Dog Harness Better Than a Collar?

Zigzagging, jumping, pulling, and struggling out of his collar are things your dog will never do on a leash—that is, until he does.

In case you can’t trust your dog to fully behave just yet, it would be better to use a harness instead of a collar. This accessory makes it easier for you to control and manage dogs with even the poorest leash manners.

On the other hand, once your dog has proven to be trustworthy, no accessory can better mark that achievement than a collar. Let’s talk about the collar and harness in detail, so you can decide which one is more suited to your loyal companion. 

The Collar

Collars are the go-to for dog walking. They come in a wide range of styles, some undoubtedly better than others. There are styles that are meant to train dogs by purposely causing discomfort or constricting them when they pull. Of course, these aren’t the types of collars we recommend since there are other training options that make use of positive reinforcement.

Traditional collars that are non-constricting are ideal for dogs with respiratory issues. These pooches aren’t likely to pull on their leashes, given their condition, so a choke and prong collar is hardly necessary. Non-constricting collars are generally more comfortable for dogs, too, so you shouldn’t worry about leaving them on all the time.

If we’re talking about all-day use, a harness usually isn’t the most comfortable. Furthermore, if your dog has long, coarse fur, then it’ll likely get caught up in a harness. These are usually non-issues where collars are concerned.

You also have collars designed for tiny breeds or pups, whose necks are prone to slipping out of the usual collars. They’re called slip collars, and they close around the dog’s neck without choking when the pooch backs up or pulls. Still, hard-pulling dogs run a higher risk of getting neck injuries when using a collar. In situations like this, it would be better to opt for a harness. 

The Harness

Harnesses are steadily gaining traction in the industry as dog parents become more aware of the benefits they bring to the table. Not only are they great training tools for puppies learning to behave, but they also allow walkers to have a higher degree of control.

Harnesses are designed to discourage pulling from even the most excitable pooches. They prevent your dogs from leaping up on unsuspecting strangers without choking them. Unlike collars, harnesses are also less likely to get tangled up in leashes.

The harness scores yet another point over the collar in terms of being the accessory that’s more unlikely to cause injury. This makes it an even more important consideration for toy breeds with delicate necks. They’re also less restrictive for breeds prone to developing respiratory conditions, like French bulldogs and pugs.

The slightest sign of breathing problems means the harness is your best choice. Some collars can result in the bulging of certain breeds’ eyeballs if too much pressure is applied.

You can either attach a harness from the front or from the back. Harnesses that attach from the front are more ideal for larger canines, as they typically lead from the front. On the other hand, back-attaching harnesses are ideal for more disciplined dogs since they don’t provide the guidance necessary for training.

Harnesses that attach from the back are also perfect for smaller breeds since they are more pressure-sensitive. Front-attaching harnesses are usually too painful for them.

Should You Use Either or Neither?

According to SmartlyPet.com, whether you use a harness or a collar, it’s crucial that your pooch always wears an identification tag.

There’s no telling when something can distract and frighten your dog, causing him to suddenly pull on his leash and escape your grip. You might not be able to catch up with your speeding canine. Since accidents happen, you’ll want to consider microchips as part of your solution. Still, they aren’t the be-all and end-all solution to your training problems, either.

Do your research on the more effective dog-walking training methods. If your dog is both a jumper and a puller, then both the collar and harness won’t do him any good. Switching between these two accessories won’t prevent your dog from doing any of these things.

In case your dog doesn’t do well with a harness or a collar, explore other options. One example is the head halter, which wraps and around the head and muzzle. Despite its structure, it’s not meant to prevent barking or restrict mouth movement in any way. This is simply another effective way to manage a distractible dog better.

Conclusion

Whatever accessory you decide on, make sure to study how it’s effectively used for training your particular breed of dog before making a purchase. Also, let your dog have a say on the decision, too. Perhaps your pooch has a preference? You never know!

0

How To Become A Veterinarian

Becoming a vet requires a passion for animals and the determination to see it through. The process of becoming a vet is quite simple as long as you take some research to know how to go about it effortlessly.

In this article, we’ve compiled a simple guide on how you can become a vet.

1. Research

Just as you would research any project that you wish to begin, you must research what it entails to become a vet. Researching a field of interest entails knowing the processes and passing expectations required.

By researching, you can also read widely about the different career paths that a vet can venture into. For example, food animal vets tackle illnesses in animals, while companion animal vets work to keep animals healthy in a private hospital setting. Food safety and inspection vets research to find animal diseases and prevention between humans and animals. Equine vets specialize in the medical treatment of horses, while research vets theoretically work to find new diagnoses and surgical techniques that can be operated on animals.

Researching these different paths will guide you regarding the steps you’ll need to become a vet.

2. Obtain The Necessary Education

The path to education is neither uniform nor set. There are different educational paths you can take to becoming a vet such as veterinary continuing education. Such education provides the relevant courses that you need to pass and the practical assessments required.

For you to become a qualified vet, you need to pass the necessary academic courses. To help you out, find study methods that’ll increase your chances of passing, such as test and exam revision papers, extra classes enrolment, tutoring platforms, forming study groups with your colleagues, downloading study apps, and being attentive in your courses.

3. Seek Additional Certifications

One can never get to a point where one believes that they learned all there is about a certain field. Fortunately, with information at our digital fingertips, you can find e-learning certifications to complement the necessary and additional education. By enrolling in these, you become more knowledgeable about animal care.

E-learning has the convenience of being able to choose courses that’ll fit into your schedule, and you can also learn at your own pace. Thus, you can choose courses that focus on the type of vet you wish to become.

4. Interact With A Vet

Interacting with professionals can give you first-hand information about the field. While you obtain your education, you can discuss what you learn with a practicing vet. This way, you get to understand how the theory you’ve learned applies in real life.

You can write questions that you may ask and schedule a session with a vet. A professional can also provide information that isn’t found in the theoretic aspect of becoming a vet. For one, you can take into consideration the positive guidance that you may receive from a professional and include this in your journey to becoming a vet.

5. Shadow A Vet

Having interacted with a vet, you can request a day that you can shadow them. Shadowing entails spending some time observing how the vet handles their animal patients.

This is important since practical observation can complement the theory and insight that you received, giving you an all-around take of what becoming a vet entails.

6. Study Animals around You

If you keep animals in your home or have people who do, you can observe them and put what you’ve learned to practice. For example, if an animal is not feeling well, you can try diagnosing and measure what a professional vet would’ve diagnosed.

The advantage of having information at the tips of your fingers is that even if you don’t have animals around you to study, you can study them online. You simply have to search on a particular animal or breed, discover the various illnesses that they experience, the symptoms, and ways to diagnose these. You can also take animal quizzes that indicate the different types of animal behavior and its corresponding explanation.

7. Enroll In Public Speaking Classes

Public speaking classes may help you flourish your career as a vet. The field entails having to interact with pet owners in an efficient, professional, and friendly manner. You also have to communicate with the animals in question since you have to calm them down and make them feel at ease as you tend to them.

Public speaking classes will help you sharpen skills of relaying appropriate messages in set tones and linguistic gesture. If you display characteristics of someone lacking in confidence when interacting with your clients, they may doubt your expertise regardless of how qualified and skilled you may be.

8. Study a Business and Management Course

If you decide to take the path of becoming a private vet, you may need to understand how to run your business. You may be a skilled and qualified vet, but this doesn’t automatically mean you have the expertise to successfully run a business. You have to develop an interest in figuring out how a vet system efficiently works for quality services.

9. Volunteer At An Animal Shelter

Volunteering at an animal shelter may give you the exposure you need to become comfortable with different types of animals. Spending an ample amount of time with animals may help you practice communicating with them and identifying a health issue.

Also, you should try to volunteer at different shelters rather than stick to a shelter that houses animals you’re already familiar with. For example, if you’re comfortable and knowledgeable about dogs, you should spend time with cats or reptiles. This is because, as a vet, you won’t only interact with animals that you’re used to and prefer. Thus, this pre-exposure may help your confidence when dealing with clients and their different pets.

Conclusion

Becoming a vet requires creativity and dedication. Other than obtaining the education and specifications required, you can read widely about the field, register for further certification with online-based courses, interact and shadow vets, as well as study animals around you.

Taking public speaking courses may also help you in terms of communicating with clients, and business management courses will be handy if you decide to start your own clinic.