How To Cut A Dog's Nails Without The Blood, Sweat and Tears

Your Dog's Nails
How to cut a dog's nails is one of the most frequently asked question when it comes to grooming dogs.
Knowing how to cut a dog's nails is so important and if you're wondering how to trim a dog's nails - you need look no further. As usual, we've done all the research for you and presented you with a step by step guide on this delicate procedure.
Knowing not only how, but also when to cut a dog's nails is so important. Your dog's nails grow constantly and how often they need to be clipped will depend on your dog's lifestyle. If you dog does a lot of his walking on hard surfaces, he may very well need little or no extra help in keeping his nails short as his nails will be naturally worn away through friction.
However, if like our dogs, your dog mainly stays on grass, sea sand and woodland tracks, clipping dog nails becomes an essential part of his or her grooming and it becomes important that you know how to clip dog nails.
Not knowing how to cut a dog's nails and failure in clipping dog nails will lead to crippling pain in your dog's paws and could lead to permanent damage and malformation.
If clipping dog nails is really not your strong point, take your dog along to your vet or groomer. They know how to cut a dog's nails - and it is amazing how much less of a prima donna your dog will be with total strangers!
When To Start
Dogs are often reluctant to have their nails clipped, therefore, starting the process at a very young age is a good idea.
Initially, get your dog accustomed to you simply holding and stroking their paws. Then progress to applying light pressure on their paws and nails - lightly pinching their nails between your finger and thumb. Reward them for allowing this.
Then, after a lesson from your vets in how to cut a dog's nails, lightly trim a couple of nails a day. Just trim off the tips - this lessens the chances of you cutting too deep and frightening your dog off.
Talk to your dog in a soothing voice all the time and reward him with his favorite treat and a romp straight after. He will gradually grow accustomed to this unpleasant procedure and learn to at least put up with it.
Tools You Will Need
When you're wondering about how to cut a dogs nails, there are a variety of nail clippers and trimmers on the market. The guillotine type is my favourite tool when trimming dog nails, though a strong claw cutter may be required for the bigger breeds and basset hounds - they have incredibly large claws!
Sometimes you may want to use a small file or a dremel tool to file down any jagged edges after trimming a dog nails, but frankly, my dogs can't wait to get away from me, so I'm happy to let them round off any rough edges in the normal course of their everyday walks.
It is also advisable to keep a styptic pen handy just in case you clip into your dog's quick - but we'll discuss this later.
Anatomy Of A Dog's Nail
Knowing how to cut dog's nails is easier when you know the anatomy of a dog's nail.
A dog's nail is constructed of a hard outer cover, which protects the quick which is the inner soft part containing blood vessels and tender nerve endings. In dogs with light coloured nails, the quick can often been seen as being faintly pinkish in color and is thus easy to avoid cutting into.
In the more common black nailed variety, the quick it totally invisible. Therefore, knowing exactly how to cut a dog's nails in this case is imperative. In these cases, trimming off little nibbles instead of large slices is more advisable.
Keep checking the clipped part of your dog's nail and look out for a dark spot in the middle of the newly clipped area - this shows the start of the quick - do not cut too far into this. Taking just tiny nibbles, you will then start to see a pale third inner circle. Stop there - or else you are likely to hurt your dog.
Also, don't forget your dog's dew claws. Growing on the inside of his legs and not in contact with the floor, these do not get worn away and will sometimes curl completely over causing your dog to get snagged in undergrowth, his bedding, etc. This can be very painful, so do keep those neatly trimmed too.
Best Way Of Clipping Dog Nails
The best way how to cut a dog's nails is to have the dog lying on a raised table or other surface. Do remember to put a non-slip mat for your dog to sit or stand on so she doesn't slip and hurt herself. Having someone strong hold your dog in their arms while you quickly clip a couple of nails is another effective way of doing this.
However, your dog may be as good as gold and let you cut their claws with no fuss at all - in which case you are a very fortunate person!
Carefully read the instructions for the nail clipping tool of your choice. For example, with the guillotine, you need to cut from the underneath of your dog's claw upwards. Never clip downwards.
Position the tool in the right place, wait for an opportune moment when your dog stops wriggling, double check that the clipper is in the right place and squeeze firmly and smoothly - the nail will just pop off.
When wondering when and how to cut dog's nails, little and often is the best policy. Just nibbling off the ends of each claw will be less stressful for your dog - and yourself! The point to aim for is to trim off any bit that protrudes over your dog's pad. Thus, when he stands, your dog's claws should not touch the ground.
The good thing is, very much like our own nails, the more you trim your dog's nails, the more the quick will recede. Therefore, clipping dog nails doesn't have to be done all at once - take your time.
Oooops! You've Cut Into The Quick!
However experienced you are in knowing how to cut a dog's nails, accidents will happen.
Clipping into the quick will cause your dog to yelp in pain - I hate it when that happens. And, just as would happen if you cut into your quick, a fair amount of bleeding will occur. As much as you try to not let this happen - it will at some stage - so it is best that you learn to deal with it.
Please, let me reassure you that it is not half as dramatic as it looks. Keep calm, deal with the situation and give your dog a big cuddle and his favorite treat when it is all over.
If learning how to cut a dog's nails is all a bit much for you, take your dog to a groomer (some will even come to your home) to have her nails trimmed. It doesn't cost very much and at least your dog wont hold it against you if her nails should accidentally be cut too deep!
If bleeding does occur, you have three options -

You let the bleeding stop normally - but this could go on for about 5 - 7 minutes (call the vet if it goes on for any longer) and be tramped into your carpets as your dog seeks to get away from you. Also, your dog will try to lick her bleeding nail, which could cause the bleeding to continue even longer.

You can hold a piece of tissue paper or a pinch of cornflour firmly against the source of the bleeding - if your dog will hang around long enough! - or

You can keep a styptic pen or stick handy as part of your dog's grooming kit, which when applied to your dog's nail will stop the bleeding instantly. It doesn't hurt your dog - which is a bonus. You can get this from your vet or a good pet store.General Feet Check-Ups
Though knowing how to cut a dog's nails is important, just as important is checking your dog's feet regularly.
Check her pads for thorns or broken glass. Our dogs love paddling in the sea and I also always ensure their paws are rinsed when they get home as dog skin is pretty sensitive to salt water.
I always check them when they come back from their forest walks too - I watch out for any signs of limping. Our dog, Holly in particular, being long haired, tends to bring half the woodland walk back home with her and I've occasionally found thorny bits buried deep within her coat.
In winter, I pay special attention to our dogs' paws because of the salt gritting which takes place and also because they may have stepped on something they couldn't see under the snow.
In Conclusion
It is so important to keep your dog's nails trimmed and her feet in good condition. Walking on overly long nails is painful - can lead to broken nails, nail bed infection and huge amounts of bleeding - and can also lead to ingrown nails which break into the pads of your dogs paws.
Just a little bit of regular preventative action on your part can make life so much easier for your dog. Knowing how to cut a dog's nails and just a little extra bit of care and attention will go a long way towards keeping your dog active and healthy for a long, long time to come.

With years of experience in breeding, training and handling dogs, Marion Herbertson is first and foremost a dog lover. Visit [http://www.advice-on-pet-care-and-pet-product-supplies-online.com/Dog-Grooming.html] - for more of her practical, sometimes humourous advice on pet care.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marion_Herbertson

When Man's Best Friend Is Obese by Bykicks

I apologize for this post being one day late but I had a problem with my ISP all day yesterday & most of today. Anyway here is the article & I hope you enjoy it, Derek.

Weighty Matters
How to tell if your pet is pudgy and what to do:
Is my pet portly?
Can you feel your pet's ribs easily? If you have to dig around, your animal is likely too heavy.
Look at the animal from the side--you should see a tucked abdomen. A hanging belly indicates excess fat. Cats whose bellies drag the floor are often called 'swishers.'
Look at the animal from above. You want to see a moderate tapered 'waistline,' not a broad, flat back.
Weight-loss tips
Calculate calories--check with your vet for proper amount. Food label recommendations may be too much for inactive, spayed or neutered pets. Calories for many food brands are listed at petobesityprevention.com.
Measure meals--don't just fill the bowl. Try small high-protein, low carbohydrate meals two to three times daily. Look for lowcalorie, no-sugar treats or substitute vegetables and fruits, such as sliced carrots and apples for dogs, or salmon flakes for cats.
Exercise daily--for dogs, 20 to 30 minutes of brisk walking or play time is recommended. With cats, try several short bursts (five to 15 minutes) of activity chasing toys or a laser pointer. Hiding food will trigger a cat's natural hunting instinct.
Source: Association for Pet Obesity Prevention
Food makers are expanding their offerings to make cutting back easier. Last fall, Nestle Purina, for example, launched "Project: Pet Slim Down"-designed to help pets achieve 1% to 2% weekly weight loss. In January, Hill's Pet Nutrition Inc., maker of Science diet and Prescription Diet, introduced a line of weight-reduction food systems with meals and biscuits in pre-measured packets.
Exercise is another hurdle, especially when owners don't keep themselves fit. Larger breeds such as Labradors and German shepherds need 30 to 60 minutes of active play daily, vets say, or two to three miles of walking. Smaller breeds still require about 15 to 30 minutes of play, while cats benefit from short five- to 15-minute bursts of activity like chasing toys.
The pet industry is hungry to help pets shed pounds. Sales of specialty "DogTread" treadmills costing $599 to $999 have risen 200% since Ogden, Utah-based PetZen Products LLC began manufacturing them in 2007.
At the Morris Animal Inn pet resort in Morristown, N.J., 32 dogs participated in "Fido's Fit & Spaw Retreat" clinic this January, complete with swimming and dog yoga. And in April, Camp Bow Wow, a 125-location doggy day and night camp franchise will launch a "Furry Fitness Challenge" contest for owners and pets to lose weight together.
"It goes to the dynamic of people looking like their pets," says Heidi Ganahl, CEO of Camp Bow Wow. "If the owner is focused on health, then the pets will be, too."
News publish by bykicks.net

About the Author

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Learn The Secrets To Keeping Your Dog Healthy And Safe

Dogs have long been known as "man's best friend". If you own a dog, you've likely already discovered the truth of that statement. Our dogs bring us hours of joy and companionship, provide unconditional love, and ask very little in return. But your dog does rely on you to provide the care required to keep your dog healthy, safe, and happy.

Fortunately, there are many simple things you can do to help maintain your dog's health.

One of the most important things you can do for your dog is to make sure your dog is kept up-to-date on all necessary vaccinations.

Vaccinations, often simply called "shots", work to protect your dog against many different illnesses which could be quite serious, even fatal, for your dog should your dog catch these diseases. When your dog is fully vaccinated, these diseases no longer pose a significant threat to your dog. Your dog's veterinarian can easily help you determine which vaccinations your dog needs and how often your dog needs to be vaccinated. This will vary depending on your dog's individual lifestyle, your dog's risk of exposure, your dog's age, and your dog's previous vaccination history. If you are unsure which vaccinations your dog needs, or are not sure whether your dog is vaccinated properly, please contact your dog's veterinarian at once.

Another very simple thing that you can do for your dog's health is to make sure your dog is protected against heartworms. Heartworms are, as the name suggests, worms which live inside of your dog's heart. They can cause a great deal of damage to your dog's heart in a very short period of time. Your dog can be exposed to heartworms very easily through the bite of a mosquito.

Fortunately, preventing heartworms is easy and safe, through the use of medications which only need to be administered on a monthly basis. If your dog has not previously been tested for heartworms, a simple blood test performed by your dog's veterinarian can determine whether or not your dog is already infected before starting the preventive medication.

Fleas and ticks are another risk to your dog's health. Both fleas and ticks can cause significant health problems for your dog. Your dog can also carry these insects into your home where they may also pose a health threat to you and our family. You should check your dog's skin and hair coat regularly for evidence of fleas and ticks and act immediately if you find evidence of them on your dog. Luckily, there are a number of very effective flea and tick medications which are not only safe but easy to use. These products can help keep your dog free of fleas and ticks and assist you in keeping your dog healthy and happy.

Keeping your dog free of internal parasites, frequently called "worms", is another task which is necessary to keep your dog healthy. Finding out whether your dog is infected with worms is as easy as collecting a small fecal sample to be tested by your dog's veterinarian. Do not assume that your dog has no worms because you do not see them in the stool. Your dog's veterinarian has special laboratory techniques which find the worm eggs in your dog's feces. These eggs are too small for you to be able to see. If your dog's veterinarian finds worms in your dog's feces, there are medications which can safely and effectively be used to rid your dog of these worms. Your dog's veterinarian can provide the proper medication for your dog.

Besides preventing the birth of unwanted puppies, spaying or neutering your dog has a number of health benefits for your dog also.

Female dogs that are spayed at a young age are less likely to develop breast cancers later in life and cannot develop the serious, life-threatening uterine infections that unspayed female dogs frequently suffer from.

Neutered male dogs are less likely to develop prostate problems later in life. In addition, your dog's personality and behavior will only improve when spayed or neutered.

Lastly, regular physical examinations by your dog's veterinarian can help detect subtle signs of illness in your dog before the illness becomes serious. Often, early intervention and treatment can solve medical problems even before your dog's health begins to suffer as a result of them. In some instances, early intervention and treatment may drastically prolong the life of your dog.

Copyright 2006 The Pet Med Site

Lorie Huston has been a veterinarian for over 20 years, working with both dogs and cats. She emphasizes the use of routine preventive pet health care to keep your pets healthy and safe. Lorie is the owner, editor, and webmaster of The Pet Med Site where you will find a library of information pertaining to pet health care, including free audio recordings describing the secrets to keeping your dog or cat healthy. For more information, visit http://www.thepetmedsite.com/dog-health/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lorie_Huston

4 Tips for Choosing a Dog Kennel

Today more than ever it is important to provide our canine companions
with a safe living environment regardless of where we live. Many states
and cities require dogs have proper housing both inside and out.

Neighborhood associations are jumping on this bandwagon and requiring
that dog owners keep their dogs confined to their yards using outdoor
kennels that are surrounding by fences.

Whatever your thoughts on the subject providing a nice kennel set up
for your dog is a great way to give them a secure way to enjoy the
outdoors or for keeping them out of trouble during the night in your home.

We have a lot to cover so lets jump right in shall we...

Tip #1: Location, Location, Location.

If you are planning to put the kennel outside you will require a different set
up than if you want to set the kennel up in doors.

Indoor kennels are bit smaller and are made of either wire, chain link, or plastic.

Outdoor kennels are usually larger and are made of chain link fencing. Either way
you need to know where you want to put the kennel before you decide on what kind
of kennel you want to buy.

Tip #2: Size.

Kennels both indoor and outdoor should be big enough for the dog to move around in.

Outdoor kennels should offer plenty of room to move around in so the dog can move
from one side to another easily and have plenty of space for resting as well.

Indoor kennels will be a bit smaller but should still offer your dog plenty of room
to move around in so they don't have to lay in their own mess or if the water spills
they won't get soaked to the bone.

The final size of your kennel depends on how much room you have and how big your
dog is.

Tip #3: What is the kennel made of.

You will find dozens of different materials used in the creation of kennels but
the more durable and tough the material the better.

Indoor kennels made from plastic are easily destroyed by some dog breeds. Wire
kennels offer more freedom of sight and are stronger than their plastic counterparts
but some dogs can still escape from them.

For indoors wire, chain link, and plastic are options but I would suggest you go
with a wire or chain link indoor kennel before you go plastic. However, if space
is an issue the plastic kennels are an option.

For outdoors chain link is the most popular choice. You can get custom kennels
made by some companies the prices for those are quite a bit more than a regular
chain link kennel.

Tip #4: Comfort.

If you are going to put up an outside kennel be sure to provide a roof or some
cover from the elements.

Putting an igloo dog house with a flap over the front
will give your dog a nice place to seek shelter in bad weather and putting
a top on the kennel will shield your pooch from the sun.

In the end, there is more to a dog kennel than some fencing and a dog. Put some
thought into your set up to ensure your dog has a secure, happy, home to live
in.

For more information on the various types of dog kennels try visiting DogKennelsforSale.biz where you will find helpful information on topics like portable dog kennels, modular dog kennels, chain link kennels, and outdoor dog kennels.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jason_Mann

Your Dog's Health - Vitamin Supplements

The market is exploding with products claiming to improve the health and wellness of individuals using vitamins and nutritional supplements. People are now seeking the same products to complement the health of their pets. The benefits of appropriate nutritional supplements are overwhelming and can add several healthy years to your life, as well as your dogs.

Dogs Age Faster Than People

Longevity is attributed 30 percent to genetics and 70 percent to lifestyle. Up to 90 percent of diseases in dogs are due to the degenerative processes associated with aging.

Does Your Dog Act His Age?

Because dogs age seven times faster than people, major health changes occur in a short amount of time. Dogs are considered puppies for about one year, adults from age two to six, and seniors at age seven. Giant breeds, like Great Danes, age even more quickly and are considered seniors at age five. Signs of aging in dogs occur slowly, but generally begin at maturity, somewhere between age one and two.

Dr. Denham Harman's Free Radical Theory of Aging, applies to people and pets, including dogs. This universally accepted theory states that aging is a process in which the body's systems deteriorate faster than the body can repair them.

The changes occur due to oxidative damage caused by harmful compounds called free radicals. Free radicals are toxic, electrically unstable molecules. As we age, they are produced more quickly.

Free radicals damage your dog's body similar to the way oxygen causes iron to rust. They are detrimental to your dog's genetic material, his DNA and RNA, his cell membranes and enzyme systems.

Free radicals are formed each time we take a breath. Exposure to the sun's ultraviolet rays, as well as to environmental toxins, pollution, heavy metals and stress contribute to free radical formation. Your dog's diet and drugs, such as antibiotics, are also factors.

Free radicals weaken your dog's natural defenses and have been associated with the development of up to 90 percent of the age-related degenerative conditions we associate with aging:

* Cancer
* Heart disease
* Arthritis
* Diabetes
* Cataracts
* Premature aging

Our life span, as well as the length of your dog's life, is ultimately determined by how quickly free radicals cause harmful oxidative changes to occur. Therefore what you feed your dog, as well as the supplements you choose for your dog are both very important.

Help Your Dog Enjoy a Longer, Healthier Life

Your Dog's Diet

You are what you eat, and that's just as important for people as it is for dogs. What you feed your dog directly affects his health and wellness. The longer and more consistently you give your dog an optimally balanced diet, the greater his chances are of living a longer, healthier life.

Dogs, like people are omnivores and can naturally exist on a diet of meat, fruit and vegetables. Consult with your vet to determine the best diet for your dog. Commercial varieties worth looking into include organic, natural diets such as Prairie made by Natures Variety.

Homemade, natural diets take more time and effort but in many cases are well worth the extra effort. Vegetarian and raw food diets are another option that, with careful supervision, may provide complete and balanced nutrition for your dog.

According to the Guinness Book of Records, a Border Collie in England named Taffy, lived to the spry age of 27 eating an all-natural, organic diet.

Healthy Dog Snacks

Fruits and vegetables are healthy, low calorie snacks many pets enjoy. Those rich in antioxidants are especially beneficial for your dog:

* Oranges
* Tomatoes
* Sweet Potatoes
* Carrots
* Cantaloupe
* Asparagus Tips

Oranges are rich in Vitamin C, tomatoes are filled with Lycopenes and sweet potatoes are a source of Vitamin E and Beta Carotene. Carrots and cantaloupes also provide Beta Carotene for your dog.

Antioxidant Supplements for Your Dog: Sooner Not Later

Recent research documents that antioxidants provide very bright prospects for increasing the quality and length of your dog's life. In addition, scientists have found that sooner is better than later as far as your dog's potential health benefits. Antioxidant supplementation started as a puppy, before free radical damage has occurred, can increase the healthy lifespan of your dog by up to 20 percent.

Antioxidant supplements, including Vitamins A, C, and E, the minerals Selenium and Zinc, and the nutrients Alpha Lipoic Acid and Coenzyme Q10, are the body's natural defense against free radical damage. They can help to protect your dog by neutralizing free radicals and decreasing the resultant levels of oxidative damage.

Other noteworthy antioxidant supplements for your dog include:

Bioflavinoids, which help to decrease allergic reactions, asthmatic attacks and have anti-cancer benefits for your dog.

Green Tea, whose antioxidants may decrease the risk of heart disease and cancer and help protect the blood vessels nourishing your dog's heart and brain.

Lutein, a plant pigment from marigolds, helps to protect your dog's eyes and may reduce the risk of cataracts.

Melatonin, a potent antioxidant that acts to normalize sleep patterns. It also protects your dog's brain and has been used successfully with cancer therapy.

The effects of antioxidants are beneficial and act synergistically for people and dog's undergoing cancer therapy. In well controlled studies, people and pets treated with antioxidants (with or without chemotherapy and radiation) have tolerated treatments better and experienced less weight loss. More importantly, they enjoyed a better overall quality of life and lived longer than individuals receiving no supplements.

Nutritional Supplements for Your Dog's Bones, Joints & Cartilage

Glucosamine is an amino sugar naturally produced in your dog's body from glucose, which is your dog's blood sugar, and the Amino Acid, Glutamine. It helps the cartilage between the joints retain water so the cartilage can act like a cushion to absorb shock and withstand compression. Glucosamine is vital to protecting the health and integrity of your dog's bones, joints and cartilage. It helps to:

* Decrease joint inflammation and pain
* Promote cartilage repair
* Aid healing of damaged joints
* Increase mobility in dogs with arthritis and hip dysplasia

Glucosamine is also a normal component of the urinary bladder in dog's and cat's and may help to relieve urinary disorders.

MSM (methyl-sulfonyl-methane) is a natural source of sulfur that works along with Glucosamine to help protect the health and integrity of your dog's bones, joints and cartilage.

Essential Fatty Acid Supplements for Your Dog

Essential Fatty Acids are vital to life and support all bodily functions in your dog. They help to keep cell membranes soft and pliable, so your pet's cells can absorb dietary nutrients. They enhance your dog's skin and hair coat and are needed for the normal development of the nervous system and brain.

Fatty Acids are vital to brain health and help to preserve mental clarity. They decrease the risk of Alzheimer's disease and dementia in dogs, cats and people. Fatty Acids may reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke and high blood pressure, as well as provide therapeutic effects in your dog for:

* Arthritis
* Lupus
* Inflammatory bowel disease
* Cancer therapy
* Kidney disorders

Flea allergies, food intolerances and bacterial skin infections can often be relieved by providing your dog with fatty acid supplements.

The proper balance of Fatty Acids helps to reduce wear and tear on your dog's body by decreasing stress triggered increases in cholesterol and the stress hormone Cortisol. Research indicates that the ratio of 5:1 of Omega 6 to Omega 3 Fatty Acids seems to provide the greatest clinical benefits, surpassing that of any individual Fatty Acid alone.

Amino Acid Supplements for Your Dog

Glutamine is the most abundant Amino Acid in the body. It is the major energy source for the cells that line the digestive system and strengthens your dog's natural defense system known as the immune system.

Glutamine promotes healing of the digestive system thereby reducing bowel disorders. It spares protein and reduces muscle loss during periods of injury, stress and high endurance activities. Therefore it is especially beneficial for pets recovering from trauma and for working and show dogs.

Glutamine also has many anti-aging effects. It helps to preserve memory and to prevent the harmful effects of Cortisol, the hormone that is responsible for accelerating the aging process in people and in your dog.

Digestive Enzyme Supplements for Your Dog

Digestive Enzymes are produced by the salivary glands, stomach, pancreas and liver and are released into the digestive tract. Enzymes help your dog's body to breakdown proteins, fats and carbohydrates in his food so they can be absorbed and utilized.

Your dog's production of enzymes naturally decreases with increasing age. Illnesses, stress, food intolerances, allergies and drugs like antibiotics also have a negative affect on enzyme production and function. This can result in a variety of digestive disturbances ranging from flatulence and gas to diarrhea, life threatening dehydration and malnutrition.

Digestive Enzymes are vital to maintain your dog's overall health. They improve the efficiency of digestion so your pet's body can utilize the nutrients essential for energy production and ultimately for life itself.

They help the body to recover from disease and promote restoration of good health in your dog. Enzymes are useful to reduce pain and swelling after exercise or trauma and help speed up recovery rates. Enzymes support your dog's immune system thereby enhancing his ability to ward off disease and infection. They have been also been used effectively in cancer therapy for people and pets.

Papain is an enzyme that has aspirin-like effects to decrease swollen, painful inflamed tissues in your dog. Bromelain is an enzyme found in pineapple stems that inhibits the spread of lung cancer in mice.

Digestive Enzyme supplements may be beneficial in dogs with digestive problems, immune disorders including rheumatoid arthritis and arthritis, cancer and a variety of bowel disorders. They are especially useful in older dogs with reduced digestive ability.

The Anti-Aging 'A' Supplement List For Your Dog:

Vitamin A/Beta Carotene: Antioxidant enhances immunity, essential for your dog to utilize protein in his diet

Vitamin C: Antioxidant, needed for tissue growth and repair, enhances immunity, needed for your dog's body to utilize Vitamin E.

Vitamin E: Antioxidant, prevents heart disease, promotes wound healing, needed for your dog's body to utilize Vitamin C.

B-Complex Vitamins: As a group, B vitamins help your dog to maintain healthy nerves, skin and muscle.

Coenzyme Q-10: A powerful, newly discovered antioxidant. Essential for immune function, beneficial in heart disease and gum/dental disease for your dog.

Alpha Lipoic Acid: Antioxidant. Helps your dog to restore energy metabolism.

Selenium: Antioxidant. Works with Vitamin E to help your dog fight infection. Beneficial to dog's skin and hair coats. Deficiencies linked to cancer and heart disease.

Zinc: Essential mineral your dog needs for protein synthesis, promotes healthy immune system, aids wound healing. Critical for hundreds of biological processes in the body.

Omega 3 & 6 Fatty Acids: Essential component of cell membranes in your dog and is needed for healthy heart, brain function and skin and hair coats.

Bioflavinoids: Enhances absorption of Vitamin C, has antioxidant effects and promotes normal blood circulation for your dog.

Glucosamine and MSM: Promotes normal healthy bones, joints and cartilage for your dog.

Digestive Enzymes: Essential for your dog to utilize and absorb nutrients from his/her diet.

Melatonin: Immune modulator, antioxidant, triggers restful sleep for your dog.

Ginseng: A metabolic tonic to promote brain health and overall wellness for your dog.

L-Glutamine: Amino acid needed for your dog to energize the cells of his digestive system so dietary nutrients can be properly absorbed and utilized.

Colostrum: The first milk your puppy receives from his mother. Provides your dog with antibodies to protect him against disease and aid immune function.

Exercise: 20 minutes twice a day minimum for your dog.

Balanced, natural diet: Feed your dog at least two meals daily. Fresh organic and natural sources are best.

Relaxation: Stress and anxiety affect pets and people adversely. Set aside an hour a day to relax and enjoy your dog. Consider massage, yoga and music.

Positive mental attitude: The mind-body connection is a potent promoter of well-being for you and your dog.

Pure water: Fresh, non-chlorinated water is essential for people and for your dog.

Copyright 2007 Dr. Carol Osborne

Dr. Carol Osborne is the inventor of PAAWS, the pet anti-aging wellness system seen on TV. VitaLife is Dr. Carol's newest line of pet vitamin supplements and is the best supplement available for arthritis and anti-aging in dogs and cats. PAAWS and VitaLife are revolutionary breakthroughs, with all natural nutrients that virtually peel away the years, seeming to reverse the aging process normally experienced by pets.

Get FREE pet advice from Dr. Carol at http://CarolonPets.com/

Visit Dr. Carol's blog at http://CarolonPets.com/blog/

Buy PAAWS and VitaLife dog and cat vitamin supplements and other pet health products at http://DrCarol.com/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Carol_Osborne

6 Dog Training Tips For a Well Trained, Well Behaved Pet

Dogs are considered man's best friend. Throughout the ages and of all animals, dogs have been man's companion. More than companions, dogs serve a variety of functions. There are working dogs (e.g., police dogs) and dogs that are used as guides for the disabled. Farmers and livestock owners use dogs for herding, and some home owners get dogs specifically to guard their property.

Whatever the primary purpose of a particular breed of dog is, it's important that it receive proper training. Many dog training professionals will attest to the importance of having a well-trained dog. You don't have to be a professional dog trainer to train your dog. You can do simple activities to teach your pet how to behave.

Dog training tip #1: Curbing your dog's digging behavior

As a dog owner, you need to understand that dogs are social animals. When they are lonely or alone, dogs resort to digging. Loneliness isn't the only reason dogs dig, though. In some instances, dogs that dig are experiencing some sort of nutrient deficiency. To make up for this condition, dogs oftentimes would eat the dirt they dig. If your dog tends to dig a lot, spend more time with him. It also pays to have your dog checked up to make sure that his health is in good condition.

Dog training tip #2: Potty training your dog

A reward-based method works best when potty training your dog. To use this method, give your dog a treat after it potties in the right place. Following up good behavior with a reward will make it easier for your dog to remember doing good behavior.

Dog training tip #3: Repetition is key

Whenever you are trying to teach your dog something -- whether it's a trick or making your dog obey a command -- repetition is important. Repetition and consistency are keys that will help your dog understand a command. To test if your dog knows a command after so many repetitions, test him without any assistance. Do this at least three consecutive times to make sure that your dog's grasp of a command is not simply a fluke.

Dog training tip #4: Communicating with your dog

When training your dog to follow a certain command or do a certain thing, it's vital that you not just issue the command out. It's also important that you direct your dog how to perform a command or drill as well as correct your dog if he doesn't follow the command properly. Be consistent when you are issuing out commands and trying to teach your dog to develop certain behaviors. For instance, if you are trying to teach your dog not to chew on slippers or shoes, do not praise him one day when you see him chewing on a slipper.

Dog training tip #5: Proper timing in training your dog

It's always best -- and professional dog trainers will recommend this -- to train your dog when it is still a puppy. When it comes to training dogs, it is indeed true that old dogs can't learn new tricks. So start training your dog early.

Dog training tip #6: Let your dog know you're the boss

Dogs are pack animals, which means they follow a hierarchy. Thus, when training your dog, it's important that you establish yourself as the alpha dog (the leader). Your dog needs to understand that he is the submissive being. Avoid showing any fear when your dog snaps back. Doing so will break the established hierarchy you have with your dog. When your dog is doing his exercises, never allow your dog to stop mid-way or not complete the exercise. Firmly let your dog know that it should do what you, the alpha dog, wants him to do.

Dog training tip #6: Act around your dog

Your puppy will naturally want to chew on things so give your puppy an outlet for his chewing urges. You can give your puppy a chew bone to chew. If your puppy tries to chew on you, yelp loudly, fold your arms and ignore your puppy for about ten minutes. When a puppy becomes too rough on other puppies, the others yelp and tend to ignore the puppy. However, you may need to assess your puppy's personality because he may react to the yelping by biting more and even harder. If this happens, you may need to apply a more aggressive approach.

Rilee is an avid dog lover that takes pleasure in spending every possible moment with her animals. Click here: house training a dog [http://www.adogownersdogsite.com] to find out about a home study video program she highly recommends to every dog owner. Click here: free dog care ebook [http://www.adogownersdogsite.com/DogCareSignup.html] to acquire a free report she has designed to present basic care information to dog owners.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rilee_Madison

How to Find the Right Dog School for Your Dog

Has a new puppy recently become a member of your family? Puppies are born with instincts, but not with the knowledge of how to behave. Therefore, it is necessary to teach your new puppy appropriate behaviors and also some fun tricks. You can try to do this yourself or you can enlist the help of a dog school.

There are many different types of dog schools available. What dog school would be the best for your dog? Things to consider when searching for a dog school include: the age of your dog, the breed, the personality, and what it is that you want your dog to learn.

Let's focus first on what you want your dog to learn. Do wish to have your dog learn basic obedience commands such as "sit" and "stay"? Do you want to learn practice drills you can do with your dog at home such as keeping them from begging for food at the dinner table? Then local dog schools will best meet your needs.

Local dog schools can be found at community colleges, city recreation centers, through pet stores, and even through private dog schools. You can opt to take a group class with up to twenty other dogs. These types of dog schools are often less expensive and meet in a local park. They meet once or twice week for a few weeks. You can have fun teaching your dog new commands as well as let them socialize with fellow dogs.

Local dog schools can offer more advanced dog training classes as well. Perhaps your dog has mastered the basic commands and you want to teach them how to hold a piece of food on their nose for a specified amount of time and then flip it into their mouth. You can find dog schools that have fun, exciting advanced classes where you and your dog can bond.

You may consider having your dog compete in dog shows. Maybe you purchased your dog from an established breeder that has determined your dog has champion DNA in their pedigree. If so then you should look into more in depth dog schools that are focused specifically and dog handling/showing. You can find these through breeders and the American Kennel Club. You can search for dog training materials and resources on the American Kennel Club website at:
http://akc.org/

On a different note, maybe you want your dog to become a service dog or guide dog for the blind. Dogs that perform these jobs have to go to specific guide dog training schools. These special dog schools are necessary because there are very detailed requirements and commands that a guide dog must learn. These types of dog schools will also provide the support, knowledge, and training necessary to make your dog a successful guide dog.

There are many guide and service dog schools around the world to train your dog. You can find these schools through your breeder, groomer, and veterinarian. You can also find information about these dog schools through the Internet. A comprehensive listing is available by Wolf Packs - List of Service Dog Schools and Information. You can find this on their website at: http://wolfpacks.com/serviced.htm/

Once you have determined what you want your dog to learn then you can narrow down your search of dog schools by taking into account your dog's age, personality, and breed. Do you have a young puppy that is large like a Great Dane? Or do you have tiny new Bichon Frise that weighs in at only 4 pounds? Find out the type of dogs that are allowed into the dog training class.

Will the dog training class be filled with many large dogs that might scare your little Bichon Frise? Or are there dog classes available that are separated by age and weight? It is a good idea to be aware of this information before you sign your dog up for classes. You want to provide them the best experience possible and not have them cower when it is time to head to dog class each week.

Another consideration when choosing between dog schools is the amount of one-on-one attention. Is your dog very active and can't sit still during group training sessions? Many dog schools offer private classes. Sometimes the dog trainer will even come to your home to give you and your pooch lessons.

Picking among dog schools is also reliant upon the price and schedule flexibility of the classes. Run a price and schedule comparison on dog schools in your area. This will help you to discover a dog school that fits your schedule, your dog's personality, and meets your budget.

Choosing between dog schools is an important decision that will set your dog on the path to obedience success. Take your time and choose wisely so that both you and your canine buddy have a memorable, enjoyable dog training experience.

Visit the dog website to research dog breeds & get free tips on dog training, dog health, dog grooming & how to find dog sitters & dog walkers.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=K_Brandt

Neutering Or Spaying Your New Dog

Male dogs are not "manly" and female dogs do not "need" to have puppies.

There are people (usually men... no offense, guys) that actually think that keeping their dog's testicles intact is manly, both for the dog and for the owner... sometimes, people go as far as to have prosthetic testicles inserted for their neutered dogs. To each it's own, but... really?

Also, breeding a dog is not necessarily better for the animal, neither male nor female, and it certainly can make dogs much more difficult to manage if they are not neutered.

Unless there is a specific reason to breed your dog, it should be neutered or spayed at an early age to prevent pregnancies, avoid aggressive male behavior, and even lessening the possibilities of some forms of cancer.

It's normally recommended that the dog gets neutered between 2 and 6 months old. Of course, there is always a small risk associated with any sort of surgery, but it's riskier to own a dog with an aggressive sex drive. Another reason to do it early, is that younger pups manage through the surgery option much better than older dogs. The surgery is very simple and can be performed in a matter of minutes.

Now, let's clarify some myths:

Early neutering or spaying does not stunt growth. That's a myth propagated by breeders and others who don't want to spay their animals.

Your dog will not get fat and lazy after being spayed or neutered unless you feed him/her too much.

What happens if your male dog is not neutered?

-They will pee on everything they find on their way: furniture, curtains, shoes, clothes, walls... you get the idea.

-Dogs might be aggressive to other dogs and also hump even other male dogs. Just this fact should give you an idea of what kind of aggression can develop in those circumstances, besides, it's very embarrassing.

-Even dogs that normally have the most wonderful temperament, can get aggressive towards humans and other dogs. A male will actually attempt to kill any male who he thinks will mate a bitch near him.

Don't be kind to your dog by "letting try it out at least once". Once a dog has actually had sex, his behavior can be magnified significantly when coming in contact with fertile bitches.

When a male dog is after a fertile female, breeding is the only thing on his mind. He will do anything that he can think of to get to her: scaling fences, breaking down doors, mating through fences, digging, etc. Besides risking getting sued for any damage, another thing to consider is that you are as responsible as the owner of the female for any puppies that are born.

What happens if your female dog is not spayed?

-First, you can count on having her locked up twice a year to keep her away from all those dogs that I mentioned before.

-Her risk of mammary cancer doubles, although it doubles from almost nothing to very low with only one heat, it climbs quickly thereafter till after 5 heats as it starts to approach 50%. Be very careful that you don't allow a mating when she gets her first heat because this can be life threatening. It is very important to spay her before the first heat.

-A brother and sister from the same litter can create their own litters by the age of five months. It is not a good idea to allow this to happen.

-Male dogs can sometimes be quite aggressive to a female in season.

-Your house will be a mess, and her behavior will drive you crazy.

After reading all this, you need to ask yourself, "is it really worth it?"

Frankly, in the 99.99% of cases, it is not.

Don't wait until your dog starts getting sexual drives before you neuter him. In many cases, once the dog starts the misbehavior associated with attempting to breed, that behavior can stay even after the neutering has taken place.

Do yourself, your family, your neighbors and your beloved dogs a favor by getting them spayed and neutered. Why spay and neuter your dogs?


There are people (usually men... no offense, guys) that actually think that keeping their dog's testicles intact is manly, both for the dog and for the owner... sometimes, people go as far as to have prosthetic testicles inserted for their neutered dogs. To each it's own, but... really?

Also, breeding a dog is not necessarily better for the animal, neither male nor female, and it certainly can make dogs much more difficult to manage if they are not neutered.

Unless there is a specific reason to breed your dog, it should be neutered or spayed at an early age to prevent pregnancies, avoid aggressive male behavior, and even lessening the possibilities of some forms of cancer.

It's normally recommended that the dog gets neutered between 2 and 6 months old. Of course, there is always a small risk associated with any sort of surgery, but it's riskier to own a dog with an aggressive sex drive. Another reason to do it early, is that younger pups manage through the surgery option much better than older dogs. The surgery is very simple and can be performed in a matter of minutes.

Now, let's clarify some myths:

Early neutering or spaying does not stunt growth. That's a myth propagated by breeders and others who don't want to spay their animals.

Your dog will not get fat and lazy after being spayed or neutered unless you feed him/her too much.

What happens if your male dog is not neutered?

-They will pee on everything they find on their way: furniture, curtains, shoes, clothes, walls... you get the idea.

-Dogs might be aggressive to other dogs and also hump even other male dogs. Just this fact should give you an idea of what kind of aggression can develop in those circumstances, besides, it's very embarrassing.

-Even dogs that normally have the most wonderful temperament, can get aggressive towards humans and other dogs. A male will actually attempt to kill any male who he thinks will mate a bitch near him.

Don't be kind to your dog by "letting try it out at least once". Once a dog has actually had sex, his behavior can be magnified significantly when coming in contact with fertile bitches.

When a male dog is after a fertile female, breeding is the only thing on his mind. He will do anything that he can think of to get to her: scaling fences, breaking down doors, mating through fences, digging, etc. Besides risking getting sued for any damage, another thing to consider is that you are as responsible as the owner of the female for any puppies that are born.

What happens if your female dog is not spayed?

-First, you can count on having her locked up twice a year to keep her away from all those dogs that I mentioned before.

-Her risk of mammary cancer doubles, although it doubles from almost nothing to very low with only one heat, it climbs quickly thereafter till after 5 heats as it starts to approach 50%. Be very careful that you don't allow a mating when she gets her first heat because this can be life threatening. It is very important to spay her before the first heat.

-A brother and sister from the same litter can create their own litters by the age of five months. It is not a good idea to allow this to happen.

-Male dogs can sometimes be quite aggressive to a female in season.

-Your house will be a mess, and her behavior will drive you crazy.

After reading all this, you need to ask yourself, "is it really worth it?"

Frankly, in the 99.99% of cases, it is not.


Do yourself, your family, your neighbors and your beloved dogs a favor by getting them spayed and neutered.

If you want to read more stories and find very useful information about your cats and dogs, please visit me at http://www.yourpetsuniverse.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rebeca_Rambal