Train An Offleash Dog To Stay Close

Train an Off-Leash Dog to Stay Close

Most dog owners dream of being able to take their dog to wide-open places such as fields and dog parks without having to keep the dog on a leash. Most dogs, when freed from the restraints of a leash, readily enjoy their freedom by running away from their owner, chasing squirrels or birds, and generally not paying attention to anything the owner may be saying while madly running after them.

If your dog is used to being on a leash and has experienced only on-leash training, her reaction to her freedom is only natural. The trick is to get your dog to stay close to you while off the leash just like she does (she has to) while on the leash. It is a gradual process, but the payoff is rewarding for both the dog and her owner.

Instructions

1. Ensure that your dog can follow basic commands (such as sit, heel, stay, down and drop it) on leash with distractions and for a prescribed duration. If your dog has not reached this level of on-leash training, she is likely not ready for off-leash training.

2. Consider keeping the leash on your dog at first. Sometimes, letting the leash drag on the ground reminds your dog that he should listen to you, especially if all previous training has been on on-leash. It depends on your dog.

3. Take your dog to an open field with as few distractions as possible.

4. Either remove the leash or let go of it.

5. Call the dog to you now and then, and reward her when she comes with a small treat and verbal praise.

6. When she returns to you each time after one call, begin hiding from your dog (behind a tree, for example). Hide in a spot from which you can keep an eye on your dog, of course, but hide well enough that you're not readily visible to him.

7. Let your dog find you, and reward her with a small treat and verbal praise.

8. Begin hiding more quickly and for longer periods of time, training the dog to always keep you in his sights. Eventually you will not be able to hide: He will follow you to your hiding spot. Always reward his good behavior with small treats and verbal praise.

9. When she consistently stays close to you in the field with few distractions, introduce distractions such as other people and other dogs. Return to the field with few distractions if she's not focused enough. Continue the transition until, no matter how crazy it is at the dog park, you can turn around to leave and, without you calling her, your dog will follow you out.

Tags: with distractions, field with, field with distractions, verbal praise, with small, on-leash training

Puppy Grooming Tips

A puppy gets a bath.

All dogs, including puppies, need regular baths and grooming to keep them looking and feeling their best. If you start grooming your puppy at a young age, she will grow up enjoying the process and the attention, and will be easier to handle when bath time rolls around.

When Can You Start Grooming Your Puppy?

Race Foster, D.V.M., a principal of Doctors Foster and Smith (a pet-supply and education company), notes that people once thought it was harmful to a puppy's coat to groom her before she turned six months old, but research has proven otherwise. Dr. Foster has several suggestions for getting your puppy used to being groomed regularly.

Brushing

Dr. Foster writes that brushing a puppy removes dirt and loose hair, and helps spread natural oils throughout the puppy's coat. He suggests using what he calls a "pin and bristle" brush, which has bristles on one side and metal pins mounted in a rubber base on the other, because you can use it on any type of dog, whether short- or long-haired, with good results.

Bathing

To bathe your puppy, Dr. Foster suggests you choose a mild shampoo especially designed for young animals. First, brush your puppy thoroughly to get rid of any mud and excess hair. Put one drop of sterile eye ointment into each of the puppy's eyes, to protect them from water and shampoo.

Then put your puppy into the tub and wet her thoroughly, all the way to the skin, with warm water. Put the shampoo on the dog and lather it up. Let the lather stand on the puppy's coat for five minutes, and then rinse it really well with warm water, taking care to get all the shampoo out. Then dry the puppy with a towel to get most of the water out of her coat.

Dr. Foster advises that you can then let your puppy finishing air drying with no ill effects at ordinary room temperatures. If you decide to use a hair dryer on the puppy, set it on warm, not hot.

Trimming Nails

All dogs need to have their nails clipped regularly. As soon as your puppy comes to live with you, you should trim her nails, and you should then check them and trim them as needed every four to six weeks.

Start Young

The best way to make sure your puppy enjoys being groomed is to start as early as you can. "At this age, the puppy will see the brushing as just another form of petting," Dr. Foster writes. By brushing and bathing your dog and trimming its nails when she is a youngster, you will ensure that you'll never have to struggle to groom her when she grows up.

Tags: your puppy, puppy coat, being groomed, Foster writes, shampoo Then

Irs Definition Of Use Of Household Services

U.S. tax law allows you to claim some costs related to children and dependents as a tax credit where the expenditure makes it possible for the taxpayer to work or look for work. These costs include expenses related to household services such as hiring a housekeeper. Exactly what part of these expenses is claimable depends on the duties of the worker.

Context

The definition "use of household services" appears in the IRS rules governing a tax credit for child and dependent care expenses. This tax credit is available to eligible individuals completing forms 1040, 1040A or 1040NR. Somebody claiming this tax credit cannot complete the simplified forms 1040EZ or 1040NR-EZ.

Claiming this credit requires a wide range of criteria to be met. The "use of household services" test merely governs whether a particular type of spending counts as a work-related expense. This means that the spending both helps benefit a child or dependent, and that the spending allows the taxpayer more time to either work or look for work.

Covered Jobs

Household services means paying somebody to carry out "ordinary and usual services" needed to run a home. The IRS gives the example of a cook, housekeeper or maid as qualifying, but a bartender, chauffeur or gardener are not qualifying.

Workers with Other Duties

If the worker carries out a substantial amount of duties that do not benefit the child or dependent, the taxpayer must divide the worker's total pay proportionally to calculate the amount that can be claimed as a taxpayer.

This is not necessary if the other duties only make up a small proportion of the total work. With work that benefits both the child or dependent and other family members, such as cooking a family meal, the relevant expenses can still count toward the tax credit in full.

Expenses and Taxes

The cost of meals provided for a worker providing household services are included in the total expenses claimed as a tax credit. If the worker resides in the house, the taxpayer can claim any expenses that are specifically related to that residence, such as increased utility bills. Any taxes the employer has to pay that specifically relate to the worker's employment are also claimable toward the tax credit.

Tags: child dependent, household services, benefit child, benefit child dependent, look work

About Pet Grooming Businesses

About Pet Grooming Businesses

Pet groomers are hairstylists for pets. Some pet grooming jobs simply require that the pet be groomed in order to maximize his health. Other groomers are expected to groom dogs to the style of the breed. A bad pet grooming experience can ruin a pet's coat, traumatize the pet, and even injure the pet. Therefore, it is crucial to choose the right pet grooming business.

Franchises

The four largest pet grooming franchises currently in the United States are Preppy Pet, Aussie Pet Mobile, Central Bark and Pet Depot. Preppy Pet, Central Bark and Pet Depot all have additional services, such as pet daycare and obedience training. The Aussie Pet Mobile Franchise will travel to any location in order to groom pets for clients.

Types

In addition to being a franchise, pet grooming businesses can be independently owned and operated or part of a larger pet store. Also, some veterinary clinics offer pet grooming services. For a higher price, reputable groomers will often come to your home in order to groom your pet.

Warning

Not all pet groomers are licensed. Anyone can become a groomer and even licensed groomers might lack the ability to work well with dogs. Also, even if a particular groomer is reputable, some dogs simply do not get along with some groomers. Therefore, you should keep searching until you find a groomer who gets along well with your pet.

Finding a Reputable Groomer

When choosing a pet groomer, begin by asking your neighbors and your vet about local groomers. Write down names and keep track of which groomers receive the best reviews. Try each groomer until you find a groomer that you and your pet are satisfied with.

Prevention/Solution

Ask for proof of certification or licensing. Ask if the groomer consistently learns new grooming techniques and is part of a trade organization. Ask your groomer if she is a member of the National Dog Groomers Association. Finally, ask the groomer how long she has been grooming pets.

Opening a Pet Grooming Business

Unless your state requires a pet grooming license, the minimum requirements for opening a pet grooming business is to simply market your services. Pet groomers can operate out of their home or even make house calls. But a pet groomer is more likely to get clients and referrals if the groomer has a certification from a pet grooming school. Also, pet groomers are more likely to get jobs at larger pet grooming businesses with a pet grooming certification.

Tags: About Grooming, About Grooming Businesses, Aussie Mobile, Bark Depot, Central Bark, Central Bark Depot

Weekend Vacations In Hocking Hills Oh

Hocking Hills, in southeastern Ohio, is a popular travel destination for those who love the great outdoors. The beautiful landscape, striking colors and breathtaking views make it worth the trip. There are also a number of fun activities to make it a great weekend destination for those who live in Ohio and neighboring states.

Lodging

Where you stay during your trip to Hocking Hills depends entirely on your desires, as well as your budget. You can stay at an upscale hotel or a cost-friendly motel, all located right off the highway. You can stay in a rustic cabin in the woods with a hot tub, or a chalet overlooking a waterfall. You can even pull up a camper or pitch a tent in one of the area's several camp sites.

Parks

Go hiking, walking, riding or climbing through one of the many parks in the Hocking Hills area. Some of the most popular parks include Cantwell Cliffs, Old Man's Cave, Ash Cave, Wayne National Forest, Clear Creek Metro Park, Ceder Falls and Conkles Hollow. Take your camera and your binoculars -- between the gorgeous views and abundance of wildlife, you won't run out of things to look at.

Canoeing

Two separate liveries in the area offer canoe trips, Hocking Hills Canoe Livery and Hocking Valley Canoe Livery and Fun Center. Your options include both short and long trips, guided or unguided. Both facilities offer safety gear and short lessons before you take off.

Hocking Hills Canoe Livery, LLC

12789 State Route 664 South

Logan, OH 43138

(740) 385-0523

hockingriver.com

Hocking Valley Canoe Livery

31251 Chieftain Dr.

Logan, OH 43138

(800) 686-0386

hockinghillscanoeing.com

Zipline

The Hocking Hills Canopy Tours offer a one-of-a-kind look at the forests within the Hocking Hills area. The first activity of its kind in Ohio, the Canopy Tour allows you to spend nearly three hours soaring above the treetops using ziplines and skywalks.

Hocking Hills Canopy Tours

10714 Jackson St.

Rockbridge, OH 43149

(740) 385-9477

hockinghillscanopytours.com

Lake Logan

Lake Logan has a little bit of it all. Spend your day fishing, boating, water skiing, canoeing, swimming or just taking in the view. Lake Logan is located close to the freeway, and is surrounded by hiking trails. The forest around the lake is full of wildlife, and the lake is full of fish. Lake Logan has been touted as "one of the best fishing lakes in Ohio," according to the Hocking Hills Web site.

Tags: Hocking Hills, Canoe Livery, Lake Logan, Canopy Tours, destination those, Hills area, Hills Canoe

Buy Fsc Certified Tigerwood Decking

Tigerwood decking has a beautiful striped appearance and lasts a long time, but if you want the wood for your deck to come from a sustainable forest, you need to make sure it is FSC certified. This ensures that the tigerwood cut for your deck comes from a sustainable resource, which means you support good forestry practices. Here is buy FSC-certified tigerwood decking. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Contact the Forest Stewardship Council. They have offices worldwide, but in North America, their offices are in Reston, Virginia and Toronto, Ontario.

2. Ask for a recommendation of FSC-certified tigerwood suppliers. In the US, just navigate to the FSC United states website. Canadian buyers can use the FSC Canada website.

3. Click on the "Certificates in U.S." link. This brings up a search box with several options in it. Choose your state and hit "search." This brings up a list of suppliers sorted by name in your state.

4. Select a supplier to bring up their contact information and web address.

5. Call the supplier directly to see if they supply tigerwood decking and if their tigerwood decking is FSC certified.

6. Check with your building contractor to see if he works with the supplier you select. Give your builder the contact information and possibly even the shipping information as well.

7. Enjoy your FSC certified tigerwood deck.

Tags: contact information, from sustainable, FSC-certified tigerwood, This brings, your deck, your state

Be An Advocate

We all have a passion or a cause that we care about. Being an advocate for that cause is always the right thing to do. Have your voice heard. Help those who cannot help themselves.

Instructions

1. Decide on a topic you wish to advocate. Make this something you are truly passionate about.

2. Research the topic you are passionate about. Advocacy starts with knowledge. Learn everything you can to be well informed about your cause.

3. Find other groups that advocate for the same things you do. Do an online search for advocacy message boards or meet groups that have the same passion as you. Join these groups and stay involved. Having a support system is essential for an advocate.

4. Get your information out there. Arrange meetings, seminars and rallies to help your cause. Involve the community by sending out mailings, canvassing your area with fliers and handing out brochures at your local hangouts or heavily trafficked areas. The more people that know, the better turnout you will have.

5. Write letters to the newspaper, Congressmen and organizations in your area to help support your cause. Both the websites for the U.S. House of Representatives and the National Write Your Congressman have ways to write in and have your voice heard.

6. Use bumper stickers, buttons, badges or window stickers to share your views with passers-by. Advocacy requires support and these things help get support. Websites like Customized Stickers and Logo-It have ways to get customized information at an affordable price.

Tags: your cause, your voice heard, groups that, have ways, help support

Give Up A Dog For Adoption

Make sure you find the right home for your dog.

If you can no longer take care of your dog for any reason, take the time to find it a new home the right way. There are plenty of people out there willing to adopt a dog--all you have to do is find them. Rather than dropping your dog off at an animal shelter or asking people on the street to take it, spend a little time to locate a good home for your pet.

Instructions

1. Ask yourself if you really need to give up your dog. Some people give away dogs for the wrong reasons. If your dog acts out or misbehaves constantly, consider training options like videos, books or hiring a trainer. If you are getting rid of the dog because you are having a baby, think again. Well-trained dogs pose no threat to infants and can become a meaningful addition to your child's life. If you are moving, cannot afford a dog or are allergic, then giving up the dog is the right move.

2. Have the dog immunized and checked on at a veterinary clinic. Make sure the dog is healthy and has its shots so that adopters don't have to worry about it.

3. Take a photograph and write a description of the dog, including its name, traits and breed. Mention why you are giving the dog up for adoption, and be honest.

4. Let people know that you are giving the dog up for adoption through social networking sites, posters and emails. Call your friends and family to see if they may be interested in adopting your dog.

5. Talk to possible adopters before you give your dog up. Find out if they have adequate resources like time, money and housing to take care of your dog. Once you decide on an adopter, draw up a brief adoption contract saying that you give ownership and responsibility of the animal to the adopter. Sign the paper in the presence of a witness to protect yourself from future liability.

Tags: care your, give your, giving adoption, home your, Make sure, take care, take care your

Make A Ds Disc

You can play DS games on your computer using a disc.

The Nintendo DS is a popular handheld gaming system with an extensive catalog of games. The most common way to play DS games is on the console itself but you can also play DS games on your computer using emulation software. To organize your DS games you can burn them to a disc, which will allow you to play them on an emulator as well as keep them as backup copies.

Instructions

Download a DS Emulator

1. Navigate to an emulation software website. Emulator Zone has six DS emulators as of January 2011 with No$GBA being the top downloaded emulator.

2. Download No$GBA. This will be downloaded as a compressed file. You can use WinRAR to extract the contents to a new folder. To avoid misplacing it, create a folder on your desktop to extract the contents into.

3. Extract the contents of the file into your folder on the desktop. In the folder will be an executable program called No$GBA. When you double-click that program, your Nintendo DS emulator will start. Rebind the keys to your preferred keyboard buttons or gamepad.

4. Locate the "ROMS" folder located in the same folder as the NO$GBA program. If this file is missing, create a new one titled "ROMS." Drag and drop any DS ROM files you have into this folder.

Burning a DS Disc

5. Download ImgBurn. This is a free disc burning utility.

6. Install ImgBurn. Use the default settings when prompted.

7. Insert a blank CD or DVD into your computer's disc drive.

8. Run ImgBurn. Select the "Write Files/Folders to Disc" option. Drag and drop the folder on your desktop containing your ROM files and the No$GBA program into the window on the left side of the ImgBurn window.

9. Click "Build" in the bottom left of the ImgBurn window. This will add your files and folders to the disc and then begin the burning process. Click "Burn" when prompted. It may do this automatically if you are away from the computer.

Tags: play games, your computer, computer using, Drag drop, emulation software, extract contents

Make Dry Cat Food At Home

Make Dry Cat Food at Home

If you worry about commercial dry cat food harming your cat's health, make your own at home. Recalls of pet food happen often, and the food we often feed our cats ends up actually deteriorating their health. Common ingredients found at your local grocery store will help you to make your own cat food that your kitty will appreciate. Homemade cat food often requires refrigeration to ensure its quality. You can also freeze the food if you do not have the time to make cat food.

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

2. Add all the dry ingredients to a mixing bowl. Combine 3 cups of whole wheat flour, 2 cups of soy flour, 1 cup of wheat germ, 1 cup of cornmeal, 1 cup of nonfat dry milk and ½ cup of brewer's yeast in the bowl and sift together.

3. Place the mackerel in another bowl. Break it down into small pieces. Then add the vegetable oil, cod liver oil and water.

4. Place the mackerel into the dry ingredients. Stir until all the ingredients mix well.

5. Remove the dough from the bowl with your hands. Use a rolling pin to roll it out to ¼-inch thick.

6. Cut the dough into ¼-inch pieces or bits with a pizza cutter. Add non-stick spray to a cookie sheet. Place the bits onto the cookie sheet.

7. Bake the dry cat food for 25 minutes. Stir the cat food every 7 to 10 minutes to ensure that they brown evenly.

8. Remove the cat food from the oven. Allow them to cool completely on the cookie sheet before removing them. Store the cat food in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you are ready to feed your cat.

Tags: cookie sheet, Food Home, food often, Make Food, Make Food Home, make your

See Sea Turtles In Hawaii

A green sea turtle under water in Hawaii.

Sea turtles are spectacular creatures to view and appreciate from a distance. In Hawaii, the green sea turtle has a special name, "honu," and it is a protected species. People are not allowed to get within 20 feet of the turtles. However, there are many opportunities to see the turtles on land and in water.

Instructions

1. Snorkel or dive in area's with protected reef. Sea turtles often take refuge in the reef area, where they can feed and hide from predators. The turtles have no natural fear of people and will sometimes swim with a human visitor.

2. Look for areas where there is seaweed on the rocks and near the shore. Honu eat seaweed and sea grass. They may come ashore to find loose seaweed.

3. Book a trip with a tour company that includes visits to the reefs. Many companies will go to the turtles feeding areas. You can enjoy a boat ride and then snorkel and swim with the turtles.

4. Visit the north shore of Oahu at Laniakea beach, where the honu enjoy basking in the sun. This is the most popular place for photographers looking for a shot of a sea turtle on land.

5. Rent a kayak and paddle around in reef areas. The sea turtles can often be seen from kayaks and surf boards.

6. Visit Kailua Beach, Turtle Bay resort, Punaluu Black Sand Beach, or Waimea Bay to observe the sea turtles swimming and playing in the waves. They will not necessarily come up on the shore, but they can be seen in the water.

Tags: green turtle, swim with, turtles often

Sell On Craigslist For Free

Want to start selling on Craigslist? Craigslist.org can be a great place to sell things in your area. This internet classified website also allows you to cut expenses and time wasted on shipping costs. All it takes to list and sell merchandise on Criagslist is a computer and a little know how. Here is a quick guide on sell stuff on Craigslist for free.

Instructions

1. Sign up for a free account with Craigslist. This can be done by heading to Craigslist.org. All you need is a valid email account, which you will be asked to verify before you are permitted to list items.

2. Take a picture of your item for sale. Listings with pictures sell a lot faster than ones without. Upload the picture onto your computer in an acceptable format (Jpeg).

3. Create your listing (posting) of your product. You will need to include a product description, quantity, title, contact information, and location. After the written part is done, upload your photo to your posting.

4. Post your listing. After your listing is reviewed, it will be posted within apx. 15 minutes on the site. Sometimes Craigslist will ask you to confirm through your email before a listing is posted. Make sure to save this email so you can delete your post later.

5. Delete your post by clicking on "edit/delete" in your confirmation email after your product has sold. All posts will automatically be deleted in 30 days.

Tags: your listing, delete your, your post, your product

Training For Bichons

A Bichon Frise is a tough dog to house train.

Though extremely stubborn, a Bichon Frise it is not a dominant dog and is faithful to its master. It is usually friendly and enjoys companionship. You will find a sulking Bichon if you leave it alone for too long. It does not respond well to harshness, and you will be able to train it faster with gentleness. A Bichon Frise is intelligent, but prefers learning tricks rather than undergoing obedience training. Be patient and persistent while training your Bichon; it will definitely pay off.

Training Your Bichon Frise Puppy

The key to a Bichon's training is to start early. Start with simple commands before moving on to more complex ones. Teach it to sit, stay, come and lie down. You may have to repeat each command 35 to 40 times before your dog learns it. Be patient and avoid punishing it, using food treats to facilitate the training. Positive reinforcement will help the pup learn faster.

Bichon Crate Training

Select a crate that is spacious enough for your Bichon to sit, stand, turn around and lie down. Make sure that the crate is strong, properly ventilated and made of non-toxic material. Place a small blanket, few toys and chewable treats in it before introducing your pup to the crate. The pup may resist initially. Be firm and do not let it out. Eventually, the pup will begin to consider the crate a safe and secure place to sleep.

Bichon House Training

It is indeed a challenge to house train a Bichon. The crate training can help. Since the crate the pup's home, it will not want to dirty it. Keep it confined to the crate for short durations, as a pup is too small to hold on for long periods. Once the dog finishes relieving itself outdoors, reward it with a treat. Take your pup outside on a frequent, regular schedule. Eventually, install a doggy door and the Bichon will soon figure out how and when to use it.

Check Barking Frequency

Teach your dog not to bark unnecessarily, as this is a major problem with Bichons. Firmly say "No," when it barks at strangers and visitors and continue repeating until it stops. Once it stops, offer the dog a treat. Soon it will realize that it should bark only when it senses danger or needs something.

Socialize Your Bichon

Most Bichons love people and other pets. However, you will have to socialize your pet on a regular basis. This will ensure that your dog does not grow up to be timid or nervous.

Tags: Bichon Frise, Bichon will, house train, your Bichon

Find A Lost Ipad Using Find My Ipad

Find a lost or stolen iPad with Find My iPad

With the introduction of iOS 4.2, iPad owners will be able to track down their lost or stolen iPad using the free Find My iPad feature. This feature uses the MobileMe service to locate a lost iPad by showing it on a map. It also allows iPad owners to display a message on the lost iPad's screen or to remotely wipe the iPad's memory.

Instructions

1. Touch the "Settings" icon from the iPad's app home screen.

2. Press "Mail, Contacts, Calendars" to open the Accounts screen.

3. Touch the "Add Account" button to create a new account and then press "MobileMe."

4. Fill in the forms using your Apple ID or MobileMe account information. Your Apple ID account is the same account used for the iTunes Store and the App Store. In the event that you do not have an Apple ID, select "Create Free Apple ID" and follow the instructions to set up a free account.

5. Click the "Verify Now" link in the email that was sent to the email address associated with your Apple ID or MobileMe account to verify your account.

6. Navigate back to the MobileMe account page and turn the switch next to "Find My iPad" to "On."

7. Navigate to the MobileMe website and sign in using your Apple ID or MobileMe login. From here, you will be able to see your iPad on a map indicating it's current location.

8. Click the arrow next to the iPad icon. This will bring up a menu of buttons that will allow you to send a message or sound to the iPad, lock the iPad or wipe the iPad.

Tags: Apple MobileMe, MobileMe account, your Apple MobileMe, Apple MobileMe account, Find iPad, iPad owners, lost iPad

Signs Of A Friendly & Welcoming Cat

A friendly cat will give you signs that she is willing to be petted.

As of 2009, approximately 93 million house cats lived in the United States, according to the Humane Society website -- so there's a chance that, as you are visiting friends and family, you will have to deal with one of these felines. Some cat behavior can be misinterpreted as friendly. When a cat rubs up against you, for instance, she is using glands in her cheeks to mark you as her territory. The real signs of a friendly and welcoming cat are ones you can recognize and interpret.

Tail

You can tell a lot about a cat by watching his tail. When a cat first sees you, one of the first indicators that will happen is that he will raise his tail, according to the Best Cat Art website. But the tail could be telling you one of two very different things. If the hair on the tail is standing straight out and the tail is rigid, the cat is angry. If the tail is waging in the air or moving quickly back and forth, the cat is happy to see you.

Eye Contact

Cats do not hide their feelings about anything, especially people they do not know. If you make eye contact with a cat for the first time, and the cat raises its head in a confident manner, then she is friendly. If the cat looks away from you or turns her head to one side, she is not interested in meeting you. If the cat lowers her head and slowly moves towards you, she is curious but the slightest sudden movement will send her running.

Paws

If a cat is checking you out, he will sometimes place his paws on your lap. If you feel claws, the cat is in a defensive mode and could strike if you make any sudden movements. But a cat that places his paws on your shoulder in a hugging motion is welcoming you, according to the Know Your Cat website.

Rolling Over

A cat has what can be called the ultimate sign of acceptance, and that is rolling over on her and exposing her belly to you. Cats do not like to feel completely vulnerable unless they trust the company they are with. When the cat rolls on her back, she is showing you a strong sign of acceptance and is inviting you to pet her.

Tags: paws your, sign acceptance, that will

List Of Nokill Animal Shelters In New Jersey

Typical shelters euthanize animals that are not adopted after a period of time.

There are dozens of animal shelters in New Jersey. However, shelters without a no-kill policy euthanize thousands of animals ever year because of the cost of sheltering and caring for homeless animals. No-kill shelters do not euthanize animals, except to end suffering, and are able to do this via donations from the public, networks of foster homes and volunteers.

Animal Adoption Center

Also known as Friends of Camden Animal Shelter, Animal Adoption Center has rescued and adopted out abandoned and unwanted animals since 1990. In addition to this, the center provides spaying and neutering services to prevent further unwanted animals and provides therapeutic sessions to patients in medical and other facilities. Because it operates with a no-kill policy, this organization receives no financial assistance from local or state governments. The center receives most of its revenue from adoption fees and donations.

Animal Adoption Center

501 Berlin Road North

Lindenwold, NJ 08021-1509

856- 435-9116

animaladoption.com‎

Animal Welfare Association

The Animal Welfare Association is located in Voorhees. Along with sheltering homeless cats, dogs, rabbits and rodents, it provides veterinary services. Potential pet owners can browse the online list of pets available for adoption. Customers can connect with the shelter via social networking sites Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. The Animal Welfare Association accepts donations via the Internet and U.S. mail. The shelter also earns revenue through its online shop and shelter animal sponsorship program.

Animal Welfare Association

509 Centennial Boulevard

Voorhees, NJ 08043

856-424-2288

awanj.org

Humane Society of Ocean City

Ocean City's local humane society is a private, no-kill shelter that also provides affordable spaying and neutering services to pet owners. The Humane Society of Ocean City has been providing its services since 1964. The shelter also has an educational center to teach the public the proper treatment and care of pets. HSOC participates in local events and fundraisers to generate revenue for the shelter.

Humane Society of Ocean City

1 Shelter Road

P.O. Box 1254

Ocean City NJ 08226

609-399-2018

hsocnj.org

Lilo's Promise Animal Rescue

Lilo's Promise Animal Rescue houses homeless animals in addition to providing professional training to the dogs in the shelter. The shelter relies on donations, volunteers and foster families to provide the care for its animals. Typically, the shelter rescues dogs from other shelters and not directly from owners. However, the organization does offer to add pet information to the website if the owner contacts the shelter about surrendering a dog. This allows potential adopters to contact owners who can no longer care for their pets.

Lilo's Promise Animal Rescue

P.O. Box 23

Voorhees, NJ 08043

856-207-7818

lilospromise.com

Little Egg Harbor Animal Rescue

Little Egg Harbor Animal Rescue is a no-kill shelter staffed entirely by volunteers. The shelter provides adoption services in several locations, including a pet shop, thrift shop and bookstore. Its revenue comes from donations as well as an online shop featuring items such as shirts with the LEHAR logo. The shelter has a continuous wish list for supplies such as food, toys, bedding and other items that keep the animals healthy and safe.

Little Egg Harbor Animal Rescue

P.O. Box 235

Tuckerton, N.J. 08087

609-294-1667

lbinet.com/lehar

Tags: Animal Rescue, Ocean City, Animal Welfare, Animal Welfare Association, Welfare Association

Train A Thoroughbred Horse To Race

Racehorse on the track

Having racehorses can be a challenging venture, fraught with expense and risk. But in some cases, the rewards can be lucrative and exciting. Knowing as much as you can about racing and racehorses is imperative to increasing your chances of success. Since the most economical way of entering racing is by buying a young prospect and training it yourself, knowing train a racehorse is the first and most important step in racing thoroughbreds.

Instructions

1. Choose a qualified trainer and experienced jockey. Look at their previous track records and choose based on previous successes. Qualified trainers have winning horses in their stables and good references from other professionals in the business. An experienced jockey is one who has several professional races under his belt and can ride any thoroughbred with ease and confidence.

2. Have a veterinarian examine your thoroughbred to make sure she is healthy and able to race. Often, racehorses are run when they are very young, and the knees have not yet "closed." Make sure your horse is not so undeveloped that racing with cripple her. Have a veterinarian x-ray her knees to see if her bones have finished closing.

3. Provide the trainer with the best feed, care, and exercise schedule available. Keep up-to-date on your trainer's methods and results; and watch the exercise rides to see how the horse is coming along.

4. Run your thoroughbred on the track for practice and for "breezing," the term used for running a Thoroughbred on the track for exercise, then cooling him down. The more used to the track the horse gets, the more successful it will be.

5. Train the horse with a starting gate. The starting gate, with its narrow confines and noise, can be terrifying to a horse. Desensitize him to these stimuli before raceday. Have your trainer and exercise rider load and unload the horse into the gate, getting him used to the "spring" of the doors and the appropriate leap out of it.

Tags: experienced jockey, Have veterinarian, starting gate, your thoroughbred, your trainer

The Average Pay Scale For Social Workers In The Toledo Ohio Area

An increased need for social workers in Toledo will create about 270 new jobs in the city from 2006 through 2016, according to the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services. One particular social work specialty, mental health and substance abuse, is predicted to be the 11th fastest-growing occupation in the city during that time frame. The pay scale for social workers in Toledo differs by specialty.

Child, Family and School

Child, family and school social workers in Toledo earned an average of $42,830 per year as of May 2009, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salaries for social workers in the specialty were less than 2 percent below the U.S. national average pay rate of $43,540. The lowest-paid tenth of social workers who concentrate on working with children and families and in school settings made $25,950 per year or less, while the highest-paid earned $58,640 per year or more.

Medical and Public Health

Specialists in medicine and public health were the highest-paid social workers in Toledo as of May 2009, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Wages in the specialty averaged $44,210 per year, roughly 8 percent less than the U.S. national yearly average of $48,340. The 10th percentile wage for medical and public health was $30,330 per year. At the 90th percentile, salaries for medicine and public health social workers in Toledo were $60,170 annually.

Mental Health and Substance Abuse

The fastest-growing specialty for social work in Toledo, mental health and substance abuse, is also the lowest-paying specialty in the city. Social workers who focus on helping people struggling with mental illness and addiction made an average of $37,360 in Toledo as of May 2009, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The national average salary at the time of $41,350 annually exceeded the Toledo average by more than 9 percent. Salaries for mental health and substance abuse social workers in the city ranged from $22,290 per year or less for the lowest-paid tenth to $55,700 per year or more for the highest-paid.

Other Specialties

In all other social work specialties in Toledo, professionals received salaries that averaged $44,400 annually as of May 2009, reported the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Among these other specialties are gerontology, criminal justice and social service and welfare. Across the country, social workers in these less common specialties made an average of $50,470 annually, nearly 14 percent more than the Toledo average. In the city, salaries ranged from a maximum of $30,410 annually for the lowest-paid 10 percent of social workers to a minimum of $61,030 for the highest-paid.

Tags: social workers, workers Toledo, Bureau Labor, Bureau Labor Statistics, Labor Statistics, social workers, social workers Toledo

Commercial Raw Diets For Dogs

Feeding raw dog food is a growing trend.

Dogs, in the wild, are carnivorous by nature. Only in captivity do they consume cooked meat and grain in the form of commercially prepared kibble. Raw dog food advocates believe mainstream dog food contributes to canine diabetes, obesity, digestive disorders and immune dysfunction. Some believe that returning domesticated dogs to their natural diet eliminates these disorders; a growing number of individuals are choosing to feed their dogs a raw diet.

History

Sled dogs and racing greyhounds have been fed raw diets for many years. However, feeding your pet dog raw meat, bones and vegetables is a relatively new idea. This concept was originally embraced by Australian veterinarian Ian Billinghurst in 1993. His feeding suggestions were coined BARF, short for Biologically Appropriate Raw Food. Feeding your dog a raw food diet is controversial and many veterinarians disagree with Billinghurst's assessment. Regardless of the controversy, a growing number of companies are manufacturing raw dog food and many commercially prepared brands are available.

Benefits and Hazards

Proponents of a raw diet for dogs tout benefits such as healthier skin and coat, reduced degenerative diseases associated with old age and improved breath. Opponents site lack of evidence of health benefits and caution against an unbalanced diet, choking hazards increased by including bones and the possibility of food-born pathogens being in raw meat.

Ingredients

Commercially prepared raw dog foods contain just that, raw food: raw meat including bone, muscle tissue and organ meat, with the addition of vegetables. Advocates believe grains should not be included in a dog's diet because they lack nutritional benefit and depart from their diet in the wild.

Processing

Because raw meat and vegetables are perishable, raw dog food is usually preserved by freezing or freeze-drying. Commercial products are manufactured in USDA inspected facilities and often contain all organic meat, fish and poultry.

Cost

The cost of feeding your dog a commercially produced raw dog food is significantly higher than traditional kibble. However, if your dog has been diagnosed with an illness and prescribed a specialized diet the difference in cost becomes much less. On average it is estimated to cost between $2.50 and $5 per day to feed a medium size dog commercially prepared raw dog food, compared to about $1 per day for a good quality dry dog food kibble.

Where to Buy

Although raw dog food is gaining popularity, it is not available in your grocery store pet aisle. Select pet stores carry raw dog food, but it is advisable to call in advance to locate a store that does. Due to required refrigeration, many pet stores do not yet carry this product. Many companies offer free shipping for online orders and eliminate the need to travel to find their products.

Tags: commercially prepared, feeding your, growing number, stores carry

Rescue A Shih Tzu In California

Rescue a Shih Tzu in California

Shih tzus are popular house dogs, most notable for their long, shaggy hair and bold personalities. For the right family, they make wonderful pets. But many families do not have realistic expectations when they own a shih tzu. Shih tzus can be needy, difficult to housebreak and are not typically good with children. For these reasons, some shih tzus are abandoned by their owners. If you live in California and have a loving home to offer an orphaned shih tzu, locate a local rescue organization to save a dog in need.

Instructions

1. Contact California shih tzu rescue organizations. There are several organizations in California that rescue shih tzus including Llhasa Happy Homes and Shih Tzu Fanciers of Southern California. Contact them online to inquire about available shih tzus.

2. Follow the rescue organization's procedures. Most shih tzu organizations require potential shih tzu owners to fill out an extensive adoption application, pay an adoption fee and complete a face-to-face screening interview. Contact a member of the rescue organization to find out specific procedures.

3. Know the California laws that relate to dog ownership before you bring your shih tzu home. Every state has laws that pertain to owning a dog. The state of California has specific laws that require dogs to be licensed and wear a collar and tags at all times. Familiarize yourself with California dog ownership laws to ensure that you are in compliance. Find a list of current California laws and provisions online at Animal Law.info.

4. Build a personal support network to ensure that your rescue is a success. Join a California shih tzu breed club to learn from experienced owners of shih tzus. Find California based clubs online at American Shih Tzu. Locate obedience classes for your shih tzu so that its behavior does not become an issue for your family. Find obedience classes in or around the Los Angeles area through Good Dog K9 Training. Visit The Dog Lady, Inc. online to find obedience classes located throughout the state.

Tags: laws that, obedience classes, rescue organization, California laws, California shih, ensure that, Rescue Shih California

Types Of German Shepherd Dogs

Types of German Shepherd Dogs

The German shepherd dog breed is as varied as it is beautiful. According to "The Illustrated Standard of the German Shepherd Dog," the wild popularity of German shepherds has led to repeated attempts to breed a "better" dog, resulting in a variety of "types" that posses different looks, skill levels and temperaments.

Working Lines

Working lines are bred primarily for their ability to work, respond to and participate in schutzhund. According to the United Schutzhund Clubs of America, the purpose of schutzhund is to encourage and demonstrate the mental acuity, physical strength, trainability, skills and intelligence of the breed.

Show Lines

Show lines are bred primarily for appearance, although they still posses the innate ability to guard and protect. Similar in temperament to the working line, they are calm, stable, trainable and easy dogs to live with.

American/Canadian Shepherds

Bred specifically for appearance and movement, this line of German shepherds differs vastly from working and show lines. They are typically heavier and larger, lighter in muscle and bone structure, and do not posses reliable working and protective abilities.

Alsatian

Alsatians are descended from old German shepherd lines imported into Great Britain. They typically posses a mild temperament and a varied, inconsistent work drive.

White German Shepherd Dog

White German shepherds are the result of recessive gene, and, although they have faced disqualification from registries in most parts of the world, are accepted as German shepherds in the American and Canadian kennel clubs. They posses a mild temperament, a variable work drive, and have found success as guide and therapy dogs.

Panda Shepherd

A relatively new variety, the panda shepherd is descended from German lines and has already achieved AKC recognition. It possesses a sound temperament and structure, and so far has not presented any serious health defects.

Tags: German shepherds, German Shepherd, although they, American Canadian, bred primarily

Live With A Cat

Adding a cat to a household is like adding a roommate you don't know well. Try to get too friendly right away; and she'll hide in her room all day. But if you're patient, she'll start to join you on the sofa to watch TV, and you'll eventually become great pals. If your new cat could speak, these are the things she'd tell you about getting to know her.

Instructions

1. Forget about playmates. Like any roommate who doesn't have to pay rent, a cat would rather you didn't acquire additional roommates. Cats are solitary creatures. They don't need other cats to keep them company while you're at work.

2. Give me my own bathroom. This means a litter box in a quiet corner, not in the family bathroom or the noisy laundry room. She will absolutely resent having to share her litter box with another cat and will pitch a fit if she finds the dog nosing around in it.

3. Don't make me share. Your cat doesn't want other animals eating her food or drinking her water any more than you do. Each pet should have his or her own dishes, which may mean feeding your cat somewhere that's out of reach of the dog.

4. Leave my toes alone. De-clawing a cat--or cutting off her toes--is unnecessarily cruel. Instead, provide a scratching post not far from the litter box so she can clean her claws. If your cat is scratching the furniture, move the scratching post there. Or consider getting soft plastic tips for her claws so she can scratch without causing damage.

5. Give me a safe place. Your cat feels safest when up high. She can see where everyone is and can relax without worrying that the dog will pounce on her. Get a "cat condo" for her. It's also a good place to feed her.

6. Make me exercise. You can't take a cat for a walk, but she still needs daily activity. Buy a selection of toys for her to play with, but only give her one at a time. (Cats bore easily but they have short memories.) Cats especially love jingly balls and "fishing poles" with feathers.

7. Protect my health. Your cats is subject to rabies, distemper, feline leukemia and heartworm even if she never goes outside. Kittens need immunizations, and adult cats need yearly booster shots plus monthly treatments for fleas and other parasites.

8. Keep me inside even if I beg to go out. Cats who go outdoors live about three years. Those that stay inside the house live close to twenty. Protect your cat from attacks by dogs or rabid wildlife, ingestion of antifreeze or other poisons and cars by keeping her indoors.

9. Let me go when the time comes. A sick, injured or elderly cat may no longer be able to enjoy life. If your cat stops playing with toys, can't climb into her high perches, stops eating, meows and paces all night or otherwise seems miserable, it's a kindness to have a veterinarian gently help her die.

Tags: scratching post

Common Spiders In Northern Indiana

The yellow garden spider is common throughout northern Indiana.

Northern Indiana is home to over 400 spider species, some of which are native while others were introduced over the years. There are both venomous, aggressive spiders and harmless varieties that rarely attack. These spiders are relatively common throughout the Great Lakes region and other parts of the Midwest. Being able to identify them accurately is important so you can know when caution is necessary.

Northern Black Widow

This highly venomous spider has a nasty reputation, but although its bite packs a powerful punch that can require hospitalization, it is rarely deadly. Only the larger female black widow is considered dangerous. Female black widows have a glossy, black appearance and are usually around half an inch long. They are most easily distinguished from other spiders by the bright red patch and white stripes on their abdomen. The northern black widow also spins a different web from many spiders, as theirs more closely resembles a messy cobweb than a typical spider web.

Brown Recluse Spider

This common spider is found throughout the state of Indiana, including the northern counties. Also known as the violin spider, the brown recluse is usually yellowish brown with a violin-shaped marking on its back. Unlike most spiders, which have eight eyes, the brown recluse spider has just six. Both male and female spiders are approximately one-third of an inch when fully grown. A bite from a brown recluse can cause considerable damage, resulting in a necrotic lesion and in some cases nausea, muscle pain and cramping.

Black and Yellow Argiope

These attractive arachnids, also known as yellow garden spiders, are common in northern Indiana, usually inhabiting fields and gardens where they spin their webs in shrubs, flowers and tall plants. Females are larger than males and can grow to nearly two inches long. They are easily identified by their large egg-shaped black abdomen covered in yellow blotches and spots. Although they can be aggressive when provoked, the black and yellow argiope only harbors small amounts of venom that won't cause significant pain or discomfort in most people.

Wolf Spider

These very common spiders are especially prevalent in autumn, when they are looking for a warm place to hibernate. Often confused with the brown recluse, the wolf spider lacks the violin-shaped marking on its back and is usually gray or brown. They are also a bit larger, around half an inch to two inches long. Despite their predatory name, wolf spiders are not venomous or dangerous, although their bite can cause minor reactions in certain people.

Tags: brown recluse, around half, around half inch, black widow, common throughout

Recommended Dog Foods For A Shih Tzu

The shih tzu is known as the "lion dog."

The shih tzu is a beloved pet around the world. The American Kennel Club classifies the dog as a "toy" breed because shih tzus tend to be small (the standard is no taller than 10.5 inches and no more than 16 pounds in weight). As with any other living creature, a good diet is essential to a shih tzu's health.

Fresh, Homemade Food (Cooked)

YourPurebredPuppy.com and the American Shih Tzu Club suggest feeding your dog homemade food such as fresh meats, vegetables and grains. The shih tzu, in its native environment, fed on natural foods to survive prior to becoming domesticated. If possible, prepare natural foods such as chicken, turkey, beef or fish. Additionally, you can feed your shih tzu vegetables, fresh rice and soy, and fresh yogurt and cheeses. The obvious benefit of this diet is that your dog is eating food you would feed your own child and as long as you provide a good balance of each major food group, your dog will be healthy. The downside is that this diet requires you to prepare the meal yourself and you end up spending time (and money) to ensure your dog has a complete diet.

Raw Food Diet

Some dog owners and dog experts are proponents of a raw food diet. The Official Shih Tzu Guide website points out that raw dog food proponents argue that, historically, dogs did not have access to cooked (or processed) foods in the wild and that a raw food diet is more akin to the dog's natural diet and thereby better. The problem is that raw meats have a risk of bacterial or viral infection. While shih tzu, like other dogs, have digestive systems that can handle certain bacteria or viral infections better than humans, the raw dog food diet still carries this risk. Use only Department of Agriculture-approved food such as liver, beef and chicken. Discuss this option with your dog's veterinarian before putting your dog on raw food.

Commercial, USDA-Approved Dog Foods

If natural diets (cooked or raw) are not an option, consider purchasing a commercial dog food that has passed USDA inspection. When considered a commercial dog food for your shih tzu, YourPurebredPuppy.com suggests that the first two ingredients in the food be meat (as apposed cereal or vegetable matter). Also be wary of dog foods that contain artificial preservatives and byproducts. These ingredients may make the food harder to digest and may cause health problems with your shih tzu.

Tags: food diet, your shih, commercial food, dogs have, feed your

Invite Friends To A Chat Room In Yahoo! Messenger

Yahoo! Instant Messenger is used for keeping in touch with people and sharing music and files. It's even more enjoyable when a group of friends gather to chat online at one time. Once you have Yahoo! Instant Messenger installed, meeting in the Chat Room is a breeze.

Instructions

1. Download the latest version of Yahoo! Instant Messenger. Add friends to your contacts list.

2. Look for the "Invite Users" icon and enter the user you want to invite to your conversation. Add a message to make your invitation more personal. Click the "Invite" option to send the invitation.

3. Invite more friends by clicking the "Chat" link in the Chat window and then select "Invite More People." Scan through your list of friends and double-click on the names of the friends you want to join the chat and choose "Add." Another way to put them in your invitation box is to double click on their name in your list.

4. Remove friends from the invitation list by highlighting their name in the box on the right, then click "Remove."

5. Chat with friends who are not on your Yahoo! Messenger list by selecting "Chat" in the chat window then choosing "Invite More People." Instead of highlighting names, click on the "Invite Other" button and enter their Yahoo! Instant Messenger ID; they need to have Messenger installed and running on their computer to join the chat.

Tags: Instant Messenger, Yahoo Instant, Yahoo Instant Messenger, Chat Room, friends your, Invite More

Homeowners Insurance Laws On Pitbulls In Massachusetts

Massachusetts insurance companies have the legal right to deny coverage or increase premiums for pit bull owners.

Homeowner's insurance offers policyholders a variety of protections---one being financial protection in the event their dog bites or injures someone in another way. Like other types of insurance, companies can specify what they will and will not cover. When it comes to dogs, insurance carriers might outright deny coverage for pit bulls and other breeds deemed aggressive and dangerous. In Massachusetts, insurance companies have a lot of leeway in deciding whether they will write a policy that covers pit bulls.

State Law

Massachusetts state government does not have laws regarding homeowner's insurance and the coverage of pit bulls. According to the Massachusetts Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, while people can challenge the constitutionality of laws regarding ownership of certain breeds and similar laws, insurance companies are private, non-governmental entities. This makes it difficult to require them to insure pit bulls and other breeds they view as high-risk.

Individual Carrier Policies

In Massachusetts, each insurance company can set its own policies regarding certain breeds of dogs. Therefore, they have the legal right to deny coverage altogether or require the policyholder to pay a higher premium if he owns a pit bull.

Some insurers might not reject a policy but require the policyholder to submit documentation attesting to the dog's demeanor such as a letter from a veterinarian or proof of obedience training. The company might also arrange for a home visit by an agent.

Some carriers might offer a policy but exclude the dog from coverage. Anyone who has a policy and then acquires a pit bull should check with his insurance provider to determine if it will offer coverage for the dog.

Options for the Uninsurable

If a homeowner does not qualify for a policy because she owns a pit bull or for any other reason, the state administers the Fair Access to Insurance Requirements (FAIR) plan. Anyone with questions about this plan can call the Massachusetts Property Insurance Underwriters Association, the organization that runs the plan, at (617) 723-3800 or (800) 392-6108

Tags: insurance companies, deny coverage, bulls other, bulls other breeds, carriers might, certain breeds

Become A Millionaire On Neopets

In all of Neopia, only a few players become Neo-millionaires. It is a goal of many, and through a little work and a lot of strategy, it can easily be attained. Here is become a millionaire on Neopets.

Instructions

1. Open your Neopets account, if you don't already have one (see Resources). Before making the big bucks, you'll need some revenue to invest. Play games to start getting some funds. Determine which you can make the most points playing, and play them the maximum amount every day.

2. Get your daily freebies. There are a number of locations throughout Neopia that offer daily freebies. Make sure to collect these whenever possible. Sometimes you'll get something that can be sold for a good profit.

3. Your Neopets do not need food. If you don't feed them for a while, it will say they are "dying," but they never do. Also, if you do choose to feed them, note that what you feed them doesn't really matter. They're just as happy eating cheap food as the pricey stuff.

4. Once you have some money, invest in the stock market. Buy the maximum number of stocks you can each day. Buy the cheapest stocks possible. Wait until the price goes up. This can take days, weeks or even months, but they will eventually go up. While it requires some waiting, this is probably the easiest way to become a millionaire. A stock you purchase for 15 NP can easily triple in price over the course of a few months.

5. Another way you can make good money is through your shop. The shops in Neopia Central and Neopia Plaza sell out quickly and many Neopians are not willing to wait around to try to buy something. If you buy things here, you can often sell them for more in your shop. Books in particular are hot sellers.

6. Shopping using the Shop Wizard and reselling in your shop can also prove fruitful. Search for popular items (codestones, doubloons, fairies) and buy the cheapest ones available. Many people either do not look into what things are selling for or simply want to get rid of inventory quickly. Price the items you got deals on at the going rate, and you will make some good money.

7. Periodically, pets will come down with diseases. When this happens, it is an epidemic, and many pets will have the same disease. During these epidemics, medicine to treat the disease becomes very expensive. Buy it from the pharmacy and resell it in your store for an excellent profit. Similarly, players will often be on "quests" that require they find certain items. This greatly increases the price of the item, making it a good short-term investment.

Tags: feed them, your shop, become millionaire, daily freebies, good money, pets will

Introduce A New Puppy To Dogs

Older dogs will often become hostile with a new puppy at their first meeting.

Introducing a new puppy into the home is both exciting and frightening for dog owners. The joy of having a new puppy can quickly become overshadowed by aggression or rejection from an existing dog in the family. With a little patience and persistence, a new puppy can be introduced into the home and eventually be accepted by the older dog and become part of the family.

Instructions

1. Leash both dogs separately. Have a friend hold the older dog's leash, keeping it calm by giving it a dog treat and petting it.

2. Walk the puppy close to the older dog; keep them far enough apart so that they cannot reach each other if their leashes are fully extended. Allow them to look at each other and walk toward each another. Continue repeating this step with both dogs until they seem friendly with each another.

3. Walk the puppy a little closer to the older dog and allow the two to sniff each other. Be sure that your friend is holding the older dog's leash firmly in case it lunges at the puppy. If there is any aggression in this step, repeat the previous step before moving on.

4. Allow the two dogs to mingle with each other on loose leashes. They might begin to play or simply sniff each other and lie down.

5. Once everything appears friendly, the two dogs can be allowed to play together without leashes, however continue to supervise the two dogs whenever they are together for the first two weeks.

Tags: each other, both dogs, each another, into home, older leash

Train A Coonhound For Hunting Grouse

Coonhounds are known for their hunting ability.

Ruffed Grouse reside in forests extending from the Appalachian Mountains across to Canada and Alaska. They are referred to as the King of all Game Birds because they give off little scent and their feather markings make them hard to detect in the brush. Using a dog to hunt these birds is useful and any dog, when trained thoroughly, can be used for this purpose. Coonhounds are an American dog breed known for their distinctive howl and hunting ability. Although this breed is generally used to hunt raccoons and opossums, it is possible to train your pet to hunt grouse.

Instructions

Start Early

1. Start training your hound as a puppy. An optimal age to begin training is 12 weeks. Ruffed Grouse are among the most difficult birds to hunt so you have to begin early.

2. Familiarize your Coonhound with the grouse scent. Attaching grouse feathers or scent to a "drag" is the best way to do this. A drag can be anything you are able to attach feathers to or spray with a scent. A retrieving dummy can be purchased in a store or you can use something as a simple as an old rag.

3. Allow your puppy to play with the drag and reward the dog for showing interest. Put the drag away while your Coonhound is still showing interest to prevent your dog from getting bored. Continue this process for two to three weeks.

4. Mark your yard with the grouse scent and hide the drag at the end of the scent trail.

Command and Reward

5. Place your Coonhound at the point where you began dragging the scent. Reward them for interest in the scent. Encourage the dog with a specific command such as "Go find the grouse" as they hunt the scent.

6. Reward your dog by allowing it to play with the drag when they find it. Remember to put away the drag while it continues to hold your hound's interest.

7. Continue to train your Coonhound for about 10 minutes per day for a few weeks.

8. Introduce whistle training once the dog can easily track the grouse scent. Whistle training teaches your dog to respond to the sound of a whistle. This is of special importance in grouse hunting because the human voice can disturb the birds but they are not bothered by the dog whistle.

9. Repeat grouse tracking with the drag, using the whistle to command your Coonhound. After several months of this training, your pup should be ready to begin hunting grouse alongside you.

Tags: your Coonhound, grouse scent, with drag, hunting ability, known their, play with, play with drag

Knit A Baby Hat For Charity

Infant hat made for hospital charity

Knit for charity. It's easy and quick free pattern. A cute little hat, just waiting for baby's arrival. knit a baby hat for charity or women's shelter.

Instructions

1. This little hat is very versatile. Bottom can be rolled up for a smaller baby and down for larger heads, or for longer use.

2. Use a 16" size 9US or 5.5mm circular needle, a sport weight yarn and a worsted weight, 2 strands, and cast on 64 st, using the long tail method for a little stretch. Place marker at the beginning of the row and join, being careful not to twist the stitches. Then knit around for about 1.5 in. or 4.5cm or so.

Next row: decrease 8 st evenly around. Knit 56 st around until the measurement is 4.5 inches or 12cm long, including roll.

Next row: *K6, K2tog* around to end, dividing out on dp needles.

3. Row 2 on dp's: *K5, K2tog* around to end; Row 3: Knit around; Row 4: *Knit 4, K2tog* to end; Row 5: *K3, K2tog* to end; Row 6: Knit. Row 7: *Knit 2, K2tog* to end; Row 8: *K1, k2tog* to end; Row 9: K2tog around, 8 st. remain. K2tog again to 4 st and then 1 more to 3 st. Make an I-cord about 3-4 inches, and secure end through cord, tie cord in knot.

4. Finish with a crocheted edge. With the top of the hat facing your body, crochet with 2 fingering weight yarns at once. I used pink and white with a size G hook. SC, Ch2, skip knit st, SC, Ch2, skip knit st, around. Next round: as before but Ch3.

Finish off after round.

Tags: around Knit, K2tog around, around Knit around, Knit K2tog, skip knit

Identify A Great Pyrenees

Identify a Great Pyrenees

The smooth-moving Great Pyrenees exhibits power and agility in its well-balanced stride. This is a gentle and affectionate breed, but can be territorial and protective of its family when necessary. Its general demeanor shows composure and its patience and tolerance adds to the breed’s kind, intelligent and regal expression. This is a very coordinated breed that is used to guarding flocks in any type of weather in the Pyrenees mountains.

Instructions

1. Look at the size of the Great Pyrenees. Males are 27 to 32 inches at the withers and weigh about 100 pounds. Females are 25 to 29 inches at the withers and weigh about 85 pounds. This is a balanced breed, and when measured at the withers, the height is a bit less than the length of the body when measured from the point of the shoulder to the point of the buttocks. The coat makes the Great Pyrenees look like a substantial dog, but it is really of medium substance—the bone structure should not be overly heavy nor overly light.

2. Make sure the head and expression are correct. The head is wedge-shaped and should not be heavy in proportion to the size of the dog. The medium-sized eyes are almond shaped and should be rich dark brown in color. The ears are small to medium, v-shaped and have rounded tips. They are carried low and close to the head. The length of the muzzle is just about the size of the measurement to the back of the skull. The nose and lips are black.

3. Look at the strongly-muscled body of the Great Pyrenees. The body is of medium length and has minimal dewlap. The chest is somewhat broad and leads to a well-sprung rib cage. The tailbones should reach the hock, and the well-plumed tail is usually carried low, but may be carried over the back when aroused. The laid back shoulders are well-muscled giving this breed a good reach. The rounded, close-cupped feet lead to well-padded, arched toes. The muscular upper thighs extend from the pelvis at right angles. It is the same length as the lower thigh. The rear legs sport double dewclaws. The feet are as the front feet—rounded, close-cupped and well padded, arched toes.

4. Feel the weather-resistant double coat. The long outer coat is coarse, thick, long and flat. The hair is flat and lies over a dense, wooly undercoat. The coat forms a mane around the neck—this feature is more pronounced in males. The coat should not be curly. It should be white or white with gray, badger, reddish brown or tan markings. The markings appear on the ear, head and tail. They may also appear as a few body spots. The markings should not cover more than one-third of the body. The undercoat is usually white, but may be shaded.

Tags: Great Pyrenees, about pounds, arched toes, Identify Great, Identify Great Pyrenees, inches withers

Petfriendly Hotels In Frankfort Michigan

Michigan on the Beach

Traveling with your four-legged family member means finding accommodations that are pet-friendly. Frankfort, Mich.,doesn't have an in-town hotel that welcomes pets, but some local resorts do.

Scenic Hill Resort

The Best Western Scenic Hill Resort is in Beulah, 7 miles from Frankfort. Your cat or dog is welcome if it weighs under 60 pounds. A daily fee is required along with advance registration.

Best Western Scenic Hill Resort

1400 US Highway 31

Beulah, MI 49617

231-882-7754

scenichillresort.com

Chimney Corners Resort allows up to two dogs per rental unit, but in cottages only. Dogs are not allowed on the beach, and there is a weekly fee per pet. You should keep your dogs off furniture and clean up after them outside.

Chimney Corners Resort

1602 Crystal Drive

Frankfort, MI 49635

231-352-7522

chimneycornersresort.com

Bay Port Lodging

Bay Port Lodging offers cabins, cottages, suites and rental homes for you and your pet. Animals should not be left unattended, and a nightly fee applies.

Bay Port Lodging

905 Forest Avenue

Frankfort, MI 49635

231-352-4442

Baymont Inn and Suites

The Baymont Inn and Suites, about 30 miles from Frankfort in Traverse City, is an actual hotel that allows pets. Extra fees may apply.

Baymont Inn & Suites

2326 US 31 South

Traverse City, MI 49684

231-933-4454

baymontinns.com

Tags: Baymont Suites, Hill Resort, Port Lodging, Scenic Hill, Scenic Hill Resort, Best Western

Identify A Spider Bite

The vast majority of people that are bitten by spiders experience these bites after the spider is frightened and attempts to defend itself. A spider can become trapped in linens, sheets, shoes and clothing and bite a person. However, a spider normally does not bite more than once and often the bite goes undetected. All spiders have fangs and venom but most are unable to even penetrate human skin and lack poison potent enough to do any harm. The typical spider bite will feel like a pin prick, become red and perhaps itch, swelling up for one to two days. However, in the United States there are some spiders that have a bite that can be distinctly identified by its symptoms, such as the black widow, the brown recluse, the hobo spider and the tarantula.

Instructions

1. Look for a target-shaped area to develop if you are bitten by a black widow spider. The area will have a reddish ring that surrounds a pale interior, making it resemble a bull's eye.

2. Be alert for cramping if a black widow bites you. This cramping can be accompanied by extreme muscle pain. The cramping will begin within two hours of being bitten if the spider has managed to get enough venom into the bite. The shoulders, abdomen, thighs and back will be the most likely areas to cramp.

3. Watch for chills and fever to start in the period of a few hours after the black widow bites you. Other symptoms that can help identify this type of spider bite include vomiting, nausea, headaches, sweating and an overall feeling of great anxiety.

4. Identify the bite of the brown recluse spider by the burning sensation that occurs in the first 10 minutes after it bites you. Watch for itching in the region of the bite and look for a bull's-eye ring to appear. Wait for a blister to develop in the center of this bull's-eye that eventually will break open and then scab over. The pain may be severe in nature and a reddish rash can occur one to two days after the brown recluse bites you.

5. Realize that the hobo spider's bite is slow to heal. This spider, found in the Pacific Northwest, Utah and parts of California, has a painful bite that leaves an open wound after it blisters and breaks open. The wound will take on an elliptical shape and can sometimes be serious enough to need surgery to remove the necrotizing flesh within it before it becomes even more grave.

6. Know that pain is the major sign of a tarantula bite. Contrary to popular belief, a tarantula bite is not deadly and the poison is not strong enough to cause damage. However the bite will feel similar to that of a wasp or bee and can be quite painful.

Tags: black widow, brown recluse, spider bite, bite that, bite will, bite will feel

Government Grants For Animals

Government Grants for Animals

There are numerous grants from private foundations that aid animal-related organizations or research. Most such grants focus on the rescue and rehabilitation of wild animals to preserve their status in nature. Others help local animal shelters or aid researchers in their work with animals. However, if an animal organization or charity cannot find a grant suitable for its needs, a government grant may be available instead.

Wildlife Habitat Incentive Program

The Wildlife Habitat Incentive Program grant is for those developing and improving various wildlife habitats. This particular funding is available to owners, landlords, operators or tenants of lands eligible to be wildlife habitats. The funds may be used for restoring damaged land, removing obstructions and improving quality of land or plant control. Habitats for endangered species or other special wildlife are given priority.

Animal Health and Disease Research

The Animal Health and Disease Research grant is given by the Department of Agriculture to increase research activities at veterinary schools and agricultural experiment stations. Either can apply for this grant if they have a proven background of animal research. The grant may be used for research to improve the health of animals, control or treat disease, improve productivity of agricultural animals and protect human health from animal diseases.

Great Apes Conservation

The Great Apes Conservation grant provides funds for projects relating to the research and conservation of the great apes. It can be used in any country worldwide as long as the local government supports the ongoing project and by any individual or entity that is experienced with great ape conservation is eligible. Funds can be used to restore and manage great ape populations, research their habitats and provide wildlife education to locals about conservation.

Cooperative Endangered Species Conservation Fund

States or territories looking to develop programs for the conservation of endangered species can get funding from the Cooperative Endangered Species Conservation Fund. This grant allows state agencies to survey, research, monitor, restore and manage endangered species. The endangered species in focus should be listed officially under agreements in the proposed area of protection.

Wildlife Restoration

The Wildlife Restoration grant supports projects that manage wildlife populations and the public use of such populations through services such as hunter safety programs. State fish and wildlife agencies are eligible for this grant as long as the state has passed conservation-related laws. Funds can be used to improve wildlife habitats, survey animal populations and provision populations for public use.

Tags: endangered species, wildlife habitats, Animal Health, Animal Health Disease, Apes Conservation, Conservation Fund

Buy Used Nintendo Ds Games

Nintendo DS is a fun and user-friendly handheld game console. If you already have a Nintendo DS or are thinking about buying one, you will need games for it. You can save money if you buy used Nintendo DS games. There are many games to choose from and many places to buy games. To buy used Nintendo DS games, just follow these steps.

Instructions

1. Decide what games you want before you start shopping. There are a lot of available Nintendo DS games, so it's best to narrow down your options ahead of time.

2. Read online reviews. Go to gamer sites and read reviews of the games you are considering.

3. Ask your friends which games are fun and which ones are a waste of money. Anyone who has ever bought a game that looked really cool and ended up disappointed will appreciate this advice.

4. Find online retailers. Go to an online search engine, and type in "used Nintendo DS games." There are many online video game stores to choose from. Make sure the retailer you choose is reputable and sells used games. Remember to consider shipping costs into the total price.

5. Compare prices before you buy. If you see a good price at one store, check it out at other stores to ensure that you get the best deal.

6. Try online auction sites, where you can often find incredible bargains. If you are going to use online auction sites, read the product descriptions carefully and only buy from sellers with good ratings.

7. Consider a video game store that buys and sells used games. Take your old games in and see how much you can get for them. Then you will have more cash spend on used games.

8. Have a video game swap party with your gamer friends. Ask everyone to bring games that they don't play anymore and swap games. This is a fun way to get different games without spending any money.

Tags: Nintendo games, used games, used Nintendo, used Nintendo games, video game

Puppy Facts For Blue Nose Pitbulls

Blue nose pit bull puppies are registered as American Pit Bull Terriers in the United States.

Blue nose pit bulls are not a different breed of pit bull, but often look like they are thanks to a color mutation that gives their coat a blue/grey hue. Healthy blue nose pit bull puppies should display the same conformation and breed standards as regular pit bulls, including a playful, intelligent and clownish demeanor. These puppies also have high levels of energy and strong chewing tendencies that call for daily exercise and lots of appropriate toys.

Color Not Breed

Blue nose pit bull puppies are not a "rare" breed that should cost more than other pit bull puppies, nor are blue nose pit bulls worth more than dogs with other coat colors of the same breed. Because pit bulls are a working breed, they are primarily bred for conformation and temperament. As a result, pit bulls are considered acceptable to breeder associations such as the American Kennel Club, regardless of their coloring.

Blue Nose Basics

True to the pit bull's temperament, blue nose puppies typically form a strong, loyal bond with their owner, and should not show any signs of aggression toward their master. The history of the pit bull as fighting dog resulted in selective breeding for canines that could work under aggressive situations while maintaining a non-aggressive demeanor with their handler. Ways to increase this bond are by attending puppy training classes and engaging in competition sports such as conformation or agility.

Socializing Facts

Blue nose pit bull puppies require training and socialization starting as early as possible. Although the pit bull breed is bred to be gentle with humans, it was also bred to be aggressive towards other animals. It is not characteristic for the breed to show aggression towards its own species, though this can occur. As a result of this characteristic, blue nose pit bull puppies should be properly socialized with other animals to learn the boundaries of acceptable behavior.

Fact Verses Myth

There are several myths in the dog community surrounding blue nose pit bull puppies. The first myth is that a blue nose pit bull puppy cannot feel pain and has "locking" jaws. Blue nose pit puppies are just like any other canine when it comes to basic anatomy and physiology of the canine species. Another myth is that blue nose pit puppies cannot get along with other pets or domestic animals. This is untrue; however, because the dogs are typically bred for animal aggression, unsupervised interaction between different species is not usually recommended.

Tags: bull puppies, nose bull, nose bull puppies, blue nose, blue nose bull, nose puppies

Get Copy Of An Ohio Birth Certificate

A birth certificate is a legal document that contains essential information about a person. At times, it is necessary to show a certified copy of a birth certificate in order to prove a person's age. One example is establishing proof of age to receive social security benefits following retirement. However, because a birth certificate is considered to be a confidential document only the person named on the certificate, or a member of the person's immediate family, guardian, or legally appointed Power of Attorney are permitted to request a copy. There are several ways in which a person who was born in Ohio can request a copy of a birth certificate recorded in that state.

Instructions

1. Contact the Ohio State Office of Vital Statistics. You will need to make a written request addressed to the Ohio Department of Health at P.O. Box 15098, Columbus, OH 43216.

2. Type or print the letter. Include the date of the request, your name and address, and the reason why you are requesting a copy. Do not forget to put your signature on the letter. You can also print a copy of the application used by the Ohio Department of Health, Office of Vital Statistics online (see Resources). Mail the completed application form with the required fee to the address indicated above.

3. Provide complete information on the individual for whom you are requesting a copy of a birth certificate. Be sure to designate the person's name if the request is for someone other than yourself, as well as the individual's date of birth, place of birth, father's name, mother's maiden name, and sex. If you are requesting the record for someone else (such as a parent requesting for a child), indicate your relationship to the person.

4. Send a check or money order for the amount of $16.50 payable to the Treasurer, State of Ohio. Please note that the fee for this service is subject to change. Allow at least 3 to 6 weeks from the time of making your request to receive a copy in return mail.

5. Provide a self-addressed stamped envelope. Print or type your name and address on the envelope using all caps.

6. Visit the Ohio Department of Health, Office of Vital Statistics in person to receive a copy of your birth certificate on that same day. The office is located at 225 Neilston Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215. Office hours are Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. If you have questions, call (614) 466-2531 for more information.

7. Obtain a copy of your birth certificate from the city or county health department office in Ohio where you were born. Fees vary among municipalities and counties.

8. Order a copy of your birth certificate online by using VitalChek, a service that allows you to order copies of various documents including birth certificates.

Tags: birth certificate, copy birth, copy birth certificate, copy your, copy your birth, Department Health

Clean Your Bunny When It Bites

Talk softly to your bunny as you clean her to help her stay calm.

Bunnies that bite are usually bunnies that are sick, scared or not used to being handled. Bunnies need regular veterinary care just like other domesticated animals, so take your bunny to a vet to rule out any health or behavioral issues that may be making the animal bite. If your bunny is given a clean bill of health and still bites, there are a number of ways you can safely care for the feeding and cleaning of your bunny without risk of bite injuries.

Instructions

1. Employ the help of another person, if possible, to help with the cleaning process. While most bunnies are good at self-cleaning, a bunny that is neglecting its hygiene or is covered in dirt or fecal material will need help getting clean.

2. Assemble your cleaning supplies near the bunny cage. These include a wash cloth and a bucket of warm water with an appropriate amount of animal shampoo mixed in. Follow the shampoo manufacturer's guidelines on appropriate water-to-shampoo ratios.

3. Put on your welding gloves as well as thick, protective clothing such as a sweatshirt, jeans and boots.

4. Sit on the floor near your bunny cage, open the door and wait for it to come to you. Entice it with a long piece of celery if necessary. Once the bunny is eating its snack, quickly grasp it by the nape of its neck, lift it off the ground and use your other hand to secure its hind feet together.

5. Have your assistant wet the wash cloth with the warm soapy water and begin gently washing the bunny using smooth, light strokes, rewetting the cloth as needed. If you are cleaning your bunny alone, cover its back and shoulders from behind with a thick towel or blanket and swaddle it firmly so it can't wiggle around. This approach should immobilize the bunny's head, making it hard to bite. You can then use your less dominant arm to brace the bunny's front legs and chest, and use the other hand to reach under the blanket to wash. The bunny may kick and thrash, but the gloves and protective clothing should keep both you and the bunny from getting injured.

6. Move the wet bunny to a clean cage or ventilated enclosure while you clean the dirty cage. Chances are, if a bunny is dirty, its cage needs cleaning as well. Remove waste and debris from the cage, then wipe down the walls and floor with wet paper towels. Dry the cage thoroughly and line it with several inches of timothy hay or other appropriate bedding material.

7. Move the bunny's temporary enclosure or cage next to its clean cage and open both doors. You may need to lure the bunny into its cage with a snack or treat. If the bunny won't go into the cage on its own, put on your welding gloves and pick the bunny up by the scruff of its neck and place it in its clean cage.

Tags: your bunny, clean cage, your welding gloves, bunny cage, bunny clean

Draw An Irish Setter Dog

Irish setters have a distinctive fur coat.

Irish setters are elegant dogs. They have a particularly soft fur that flows out from the body in wavy extensions. One of the main things to remember when drawing a dog's fur is that it must be done in layers. There are too many hairs to draw individually, so shading is used to create the illusion. By continuing to detail shaded and blended hair lines, you can achieve a realistic looking coat of hair on a dog like the Irish setter.

Instructions

1. Find some good quality images to use as a reference when drawing the Irish setter. Examine the images to familiarize yourself with the look of the dog. Use some close-up images to help you to detail certain areas, like the head. Select an image that shows a good side view of the Irish setter as a main reference. Put the images beside your drawing so that you can check back and forth from the image to the drawing as you work. Of course, if you have access to a real Irish setter, use it as a model.

2. Draw the outline of the legs, beginning in the front. Use fine short lines so that you can easily erase any mistakes along the way. Draw the front legs which are smooth at the front. Draw the back side with the hairs flowing beyond the legs toward the back. Continue with the chest, again using longer hair lines for the furry chest and continue up the neck to the head, looking sideways. Note how the hairs on the chest and neck are pointing forward, away from the body.

3. Draw long hair lines in a downward direction to continue the underside of the dog. Outline the hind legs which are smooth except at the back near the tail. Outline the paws, toes and claws. Draw the trail which is smooth on top with longer hair hanging down below like a curtain. Draw the back, including the hump above the hip and up along the back to the head.

4. Draw the eyes as small triangles pointing forward on either side of the muzzle. Draw the nose, including the nostrils below the eyes. Draw the line along the bottom of the muzzle and below the nose to indicate the mouth. Draw the ears so that the bottoms are almost level with the mouth line. Use longer hair lines to enhance the typical Irish setter look.

5. Shade the dark areas of the dog. Look where the light is coming from and use that as a guideline. Look for the highlights on the shiny fur of the setter. Use the eraser to keep these light to give it the look of sheen. Shade the face of the dog carefully. Keep the ears relatively light.

6. Blend the shading with a chamois as you work on the dog and redraw more detail in layers until it looks real. Make sure to rub the chamois in the direction of the musculature to show the contours and give the drawing some depth.

7. Draw shadows on the dog, on the underside at the back, for example. Finish the detailing by drawing small dots for whiskers.

Tags: Irish setter, hair lines, longer hair, which smooth, Draw back, drawing that

The Signs Of A Stress Fracture In A Dog

Stress fractures in a dog are caused when a dog puts too much pressure on a part of its body repeatedly. For example, Greyhounds sometimes get stress fractures on their legs because of the pressure on them when they run.

Limping

Limping is a sign your dog may have a stress fracture. If the dog's leg is hurt, the dog may favor the other legs and limp around, not putting any pressure on the hurt leg.

Swelling

The area where there is a fracture may swell. This may be an indication your dog is injured. If the swelling is significant, it may be more than a stress fracture and you should take your dog to see a vet.

Depression

When a dog is hurt, it may be in shock and could go into depression. If you notice changes in your dog's behavior such as depression, sleepiness and being uninterested in its usual activities, then it is possible the dog may have a stress fracture. The pain along with the inability to use the area that is fractured may culminate to create this mood swing.

Painful

If your dog is in pain and the area hurts when you touch it, then this may be an indication of a stress fracture. Depending on how bad the fracture is, the dog may snap at you if you get too close to the area. This makes it hard for you to inspect the wound, so if your dog is reacting like this, take it to a vet so it can get it looked at.

Tags: have stress, have stress fracture, stress fracture, stress fracture

Raise Pygmy Goats

Raise Pygmy Goats

Pygmy goats are cute and cuddly and provide many valuable services. For example, they keep the vegetation on your property cut, they produce natural fertilizers that you can use for your garden, and they also help control populations of fleas and ticks on your property.

Instructions

1. Build your herd. Pygmy goats, like other goats, are herding animals. To preserve their mental and physical health, you will need at least two pygmy goats for your herd.

2. Create a secure and safe enclosure. Pygmy goats are skilled at demolition, so use cattle fencing to keep them in a specific area and keep out predators. Make sure you provide the pygmy goats with enough space for play, from a half acre for two goats to several acres for larger herds. Large dog houses provide great daytime shelter from wind and bad weather. A barn stall is needed for night time and winter shelter.

3. Feed pygmy goats a well-balanced diet. During the spring and summer, your goats will get most of their nourishment from grasses and brush. However, you will need to supplement their diet with goat rations to ensure that they're getting all the minerals they need. When wild grasses and brush are not available, feed your goats sweet feed and goat rations.

4. Worm your pygmy goats every couple of months.

5. Limit how often you breed the pygmy goats. While pygmy goats can give birth more than once a year, it is not recommended to breed them more than once a year. You will produce much healthier kids with a single pregnancy a year. Does should be about 18 months old before they are bred. If your does are having a hard time feeding their kids, bottle-feed the babies when necessary.

6. Provide toys for your pygmy goats. Picnic tables are a great recreational item for goats. The pygmies can climb on the table and even chew on it. Other toys include boulders, balls and tires. Select items that are non-toxic and capable of withstanding abuse from the goats.

Tags: pygmy goats, your pygmy goats, goat rations, grasses brush, more than