Archive for May, 2009

posted by admin on May 29

Have you ever seen a beagle? Sure you have. What about a basset hound? Of course! How about a Polish Owczarek Nizinny? Didn’t think so. Its one of many unfamiliar breeds of dogs roaming the Earth and though it has a funny name (to Americans anyway), it is a beautiful creature. There are a great many dog breeds out there that, unless you’re a dog expert, you may never have heard of. Here are a few.

Affenpinscher:

The smallest dog in the family that includes pinschers and schnauzers, the Affenpinscher is a toy dog with a good demeanor. These little guys are very intelligent and trainable and make wonderful family pets. They have a dark, wiry coat and are naturally affectionate towards humans.

Anatolian Shepherd:

The Anatolian Shepherd has a large frame and is considered to be quite courageous. These are strong and loyal dogs that see a good deal of use in the United States as military and hunting dogs.

Basenji:

The Basenji is a medium sized muscular dog that is also known as the African Barkless Dog. They never bark, but not because they are mute; apparently they just don’t want to. Basenjis were originally bred in Africa as hunting dogs. They do not naturally make good pets, but overcome their aversion to humans if they are handled consistently from an early age.

Bouvier des Flandres:

These small but sturdy dogs have the appearance of a sort of terrier. They usually have a dark rough coat and a generally calm manner. They were originally bred as herders in France and today are used in both police work and as guide dogs or assistance animals for the blind.

Central Asian Ovtcharka:

The Central Asian Ovtcharka is a large and muscular dog. It is known as loyal and fearless and has protective instincts that make it an excellent herder and watchdog. Typically they have their ears and tail docked at an early age.

Polish Owczarek Nizinny:

This guy is a medium sized shaggy dog with a long coat that covers its eyes. Loyal and devoted dogs, they make great pets as long as they won’t be left alone for long periods of time since they are known to cause trouble when unsupervised for too long.

posted by admin on May 19

Aquarium plants are as important to aquariums as water is to fish. Aquarium plants add more life to aquarium and make it to look beautiful while completing the aquarium community structure.

The most important thing to bear in mind with plants is to form an attractive background, leaving ample space so the fish can swim undisturbed and be seen. The tall, grassy type is best planted at intervals in rows, while the feathery ones look better when they are bunched into small clumps, which makes them to appear like branching bushes.

When planting rooted plants, hold the tips of the bunch of roots between the thumb and second finger and rest them on the sand. Now with the first finger push the upper part of the roots (where they join the stem) about 2cm into the sand. Without moving this finger scrape with the thumb and second finger some sand over any uncovered portion of the root.

When putting in rootless plants in bunches, the method explained above is repeated, but this time the lower ends of the stems are placed together and treated exactly as if they were roots.

It is important that the water surface should be right up to the lower edge of the top angle iron of the tank, so that looking from the front the water surface can not be seen and the viewer gets the impression that there is no water in the aquarium. If the level is allowed to fall below the top angle iron the tank looks like a container holding water.

Aquarium Lighting is also important for aquarium plants

This depends greatly on whether you intend to successfully grow plants or not. Lack of light causes colorful fish to fade and clanch-reds to pink, green to white. The two main methods of lighting aquarium are by the INCADESCENT and FLOURESCENT.

The total amount of light required is a matter of trial and error. Too much light will turn the water green; too little will stunt plant growth.

The lighting can be natural or artificial or a combination of both. The best position is near a north facing window. This should provide the ideal amount of indirect lights which an be supplemented by artificial light.

The lighting should be housed in wood constructed stylishly with the furniture and placed above the tank. if there is no natural day light, the lights should be left on for approximately eight hours per day.

If the water turns green, you cut down on the light.

The best light for showing off an aquarium comes from behind.

posted by admin on May 14

Thousands of the world’s most competitive and coifed canines will compete for the crown at the 2006 AKC/Eukanuba National Championship in Tampa, Fla., on Jan. 14 and Jan. 15.

The top-ranked 25 dogs from each of the 153 AKC-recognized breeds are invited to the event to compete for cash and prizes totaling more than $225,000. The National Champion will win $50,000. The show will be broadcasted live by Animal Planet and the Discovery Channel starting at 8 p.m. EST both nights.

“The dogs shown at this competition are examples of the work of responsible breeders – people who dedicate their lives not only to the sport, but to creating the most ideal examples of their breed,” said Ron Menaker, show chairman and AKC Chairman of the Board. “Watching or attending the AKC/Eukanuba National Championship is an ideal way for any dog lover to learn more about purebred dogs and witness the human-canine bond in action.”

The Tampa Convention Center and St. Pete Times Forum will house three championship events during the weekend: the AKC/Eukanuba National Championship; the AKC National Agility Championship; and the AKC National Obedience Invitational. The events have been dubbed the “Canine Olympics.”

Nearly 2,500 dogs competed last year, including 108 competitors from foreign registries representing 16 countries.

Agility events allow dogs to demonstrate their athleticism and versatility by racing against the clock and overcoming a challenging course of different obstacles. Agility is the AKC’s fastest-growing canine sport.

In the sport of obedience, the dog and handler are judged as a team. Obedience trials test a dog’s ability to perform a prescribed set of exercises.

“With participants from around the globe, multiple competitions, educational displays and fun, interactive activities, this is a canine event unlike any other,” said Gina DiNardo Lash, AKC spokeswoman.

The AKC/Eukanuba National Championship also features a unique competition for Junior Handlers – competitors between the ages of 10 and 18 who will vie for top honors and scholarship dollars.

posted by admin on May 9

Caring for dogs involves more than just feeding and walking them. Protecting dogs from potentially debilitating Lyme disease is crucial for their health and happiness.

While many people take precautions against ticks and Lyme disease for themselves, it’s not uncommon for man’s best friend to be overlooked.

To educate dog owners about canine Lyme disease, Merial and the Lyme Disease Foundation have partnered to promote April as Prevent Lyme in Dogs Month. Spring is the start of tick season in most areas, but concerns about Lyme disease last all spring and summer as pets spend more time outdoors.

The number of cases of Lyme disease has increased more than 50-fold since 1982. Lyme disease has been found to be most common in certain areas of the United States, including the Northeastern, Mid-Atlantic and upper Midwest regions, plus northern California and Oregon. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Lyme disease has been found in humans in 49 states.

Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi that is transmitted by the deer tick. Clinical signs of the disease in canines include: shifting leg lameness, fever, swollen joints, muscle soreness, malaise, chronic arthritis, facial paralysis, seizures and acute renal failure.

“Taking preventive measures against Lyme disease can spare dogs from the disease’s horrible symptoms,” says Richard Ford, DVM, MS, DACVIM, DACVPM (hon), College of Veterinary Medicine at North Carolina State University. “In addition to regularly checking dogs for ticks, pet owners should know how to prevent Lyme disease.”

RECOMBITEK® Lyme vaccine protects dogs from Lyme disease and should be used in conjunction with FRONTLINE® brand product. The two work together to help ensure that animals are safe from ticks and Lyme disease. Both products, made by Merial, are available from your local veterinarian.

posted by admin on May 4

Pet accessories are an important part of taking care of your dog. Generally we use accessories to accentuate the beauty of things. When it comes to pet care accessories are used to protect your pet from harmful elements. You can also gain a lot of satisfaction from buying accessories for you pet. There is a wide variety to choose from and you might wonder where to start, particularly if this is your first pet.

Here are some tips on what to look for when choosing accessories for your pet:

1. Food and water bowls:

The most important thing about choosing good bowls is that they are not easily tipped over. You will probably want to check that especially the water bowl is pretty sturdy. It’s vital that your dog has free access to water at all times and one of the ways people are doing this is by buying large water systems for their pets. Much like human watering systems these will keep your dog with fresh water for longer.

2. Dog Collar:

Whether you want a plain or fancy variety – collars are important and will be an item you use daily. This means the comfort and fit are important. Experts recommend a space between the dog’s neck and the collar to be at least 2 fingers wide. A collar should never be too loose or too tight. Make sure you get a good fit and take your dog along when you buying a collar.

3. Dog leash:

It’s not hard to choose a leash – you just want to keep in mind that it needs to be strong enough to hold your dog. Leashes are often sold clearly marked with the breeds the leash is suitable for.

4. Grooming accessories:

Depending on the kind of breed you have the amount of grooming accessories needed will vary.

If you have a dog that will need relatively little grooming, that is with a short coat, then you will need only a basic toolkit.

You will need
- dog shampoo
- dog clippers
- styptic powder
- dog toothbrush
- dog toothpaste
- dog brush or comb

These are the basics. There are many other products you can use to keep your dog clean and fragrant. If you have a more high maintenance dog you will need these plus a wider variety of brushes and combs to care for your pets coat and grooming needs.

5. Dog houses:

If your dog will be sleeping outside then it’s important that they have their own place for shelter. A dog house will keep your dog out of the harsh sunlight or rain or even snow. When choosing a dog house try to choose the right size. The dog should fit snuggly inside with enough space to move around.

6. Dog beds:

If your dog will be spending time inside it’s also a good idea to buy a dog bed. This gives your dog a ‘retreat’ and they will value having their own comfy space where they can go when cold or sleepy. Again just try to choose the right size. Many dog beds are designed for specific breeds so you won’t have a problem finding a bed for your dog.

7. Dog toys and treats:

Most dogs love playing, and just like children, love being spoilt. It is especially important if you are away for long periods of time that your dog has something to play with. It’s best to give them a variety of toys; this will keep them away from your slippers!

Again the most important thing is the size. Treats and toys should be size appropriate. If the toy is too big they won’t be able to play with it and it won’t be fun for anyone.

There is a wide variety of toys for you dog to chew, play and bite. Spend some time choosing some fun toys for your dog.

These are the most important accessories you will need for your dog. There are many more things you could buy your dog but by catering for the items on this list your dog should have everything he needs to be a healthy, happy dog.