How About Becoming A Foster Pet Parent

  Do you love animals? Would you like to make a difference and help save lives, but don’t want to make a 10 year commitment by adopting a pet? IMG_2433We have the purrfect solution for you: Become a temporary foster parent.

Rescue work isn’t for everyone. There are so many animals in need, it is often difficult to create appropriate boundaries and learn to say “no”. In fact, most of us just can’t — at least until our families put their feet down and say no for us. We all have a tendency to push the envelope, and continue taking in critters even though we really don’t have the space, the money, or even the time and energy to devote to them. We rationalize this by saying that at least they have a chance to survive if we take them in. How do you say no to that little ball of fur looking up at you with complete, and total, unconditional love and trust? If you don’t take him in, you know he won’t survive. He’ll end up in the local “shelter” and if those sad puppy eyes don’t work on someone else, he’ll be put down.

It isn’t their fault that they are homeless! At some point in the chain of events, there as an irresponsible human being. The problem is, we can take care of ourselves. We can speak for ourselves. We can fight for our rights. But, who is there to speak out for these animals? At one point they, or their parents, were adopted or purchased and enjoyed being a loved family member. But, at some point, that all changed.

Maybe the puppy had too much energy. Maybe she was difficult to house train. Maybe he chewed on everything in site. Maybe the owner didn’t get her spayed right away, and she ended up pregnant. Rather than doing the responsible thing, she was driven to a remote location and dumped.

Who will speak up for the animals?

Did you know that 70,000 dogs and cats are born in the United States every day?

Did you know that 8 million perfectly adoptable dogs and cats are killed every year because they don’t have a home or loving family?

Did you know that the number one reason people surrender a dog or cat to the shelter is because of behavioral problems that are easily corrected with love and training?

Did you know that 64% percent of the animals that are taken to shelters are never adopted and end up being killed?

Did you know that an unaltered female cat and her offspring can produce 420,000 cats in 7 years? And an unaltered female dog and her offspring can produce 67,000 dogs in 6 years?

If you aren’t part of the solution, you are part of the problem.

I would like to suggest an opportunity for you to become part of the solution. At this time of year, the animal overpopulation problem kicks into high gear. There are far too many animals for the rescue organizations and shelters to handle. Every week, I find myself having to say “no” to someone calling me on the phone begging me to help them with abandoned, orphaned, or stray animals in their neighborhood because I’ve run out of space.

You can help by becoming a foster parent. The process is fairly painless. Simply contact your local rescue group or shelter and ask for an application. They will verify that you have the space to foster parent, and you can have your choice of an adult cat or dog, or young kittens or puppies. Help us save lives. Become a foster parent today. You won’t get paid. In most cases, we can’t even provide dog or cat food (I easily go through 100-200 pounds of dog chow, 100-200 pounds of puppy chow, and 50 pounds of cat chow every week feeding the animals at my rescue). But, I can promise you will be rewarded. You will receive unconditional love, lots of kisses, and the satisfaction of knowing you saved a life.

Please consider fostering a dog or cat today. The life you save will one day be someone’s best friend!

Cheree is practice manager of Azzore Veterinary Specialists, and founding director of the Mill Creek Animal Rescue - both in Russellville, AR. You can view pets available for adoption at Petfinder or visit her at MySpace

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Posted by Paws and Fur | Just Pets | May 06, 2008

Talking Dogs

Listen hard and it really sounds like these dogs are talking. Amazing talking pets!

Did you hear it? “I wannnnnt mmmmmyyy mmmommmmyy”

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Posted by Paws and Fur | Funny Pet Videos | April 29, 2008

Considering A Pomeranian Puppy Family Member

pomeranian.jpgIf you are thinking about adding a new puppy to your family, why not consider a Pomeranian? These compact dogs can make great family pets, even in households with other animals and older children. Pomeranians have a tendency toward loyalty to their owners, and their eagerness to please can make them quite trainable, as long as you can overcome a stubborn streak that many of these dogs possess also.

However, your search for the perfect Pomeranian should begin with an overview of the possible medical problems that this breed can have and an understanding of potential Pomeranian allergies that you may need to deal with. Selecting a veterinarian that is experienced in working with this breed is a good first step in proper Pomeranian care. It is also important to screen breeders carefully before purchasing your Pomeranian puppy to ensure that you find a dog that has a much lower likelihood of any medical issues that are seen in this breed.

The reason that it is important to understand the possible health issues of the Pomeranian is so you can ask breeders whether they screen for certain problems and avoid breeding dogs that test positive for them. This greatly reduces the likelihood that certain health problems will be present in the line that you choose your puppy from. It is also a good idea to know how to recognize the symptoms of Pomeranian allergies, which might include sneezing, wheezing, itching and diarrhea. This way you can treat allergies as soon as they arise, by changing food or checking your dog for fleas.

The vet that you select will also be an important link in keeping your Pomeranian healthy and happy. Take the necessary time to visit a number of veterinarian offices, and ask questions of the staff and doctor to find out if this is a clinic that you will be comfortable bringing your puppy to. The staff should be helpful and the environment should be clean and well maintained. Make sure that the clinic hours are convenient for your schedule and that the office has procedures in place in the event of an emergency with your pet. Bringing a new pet into your home is an important responsibility, and one that you should prepare for accordingly.

Part of that preparation will include educating yourself about the types of medical issues that you should be on the lookout for so that treatment can be sought quickly and effectively for any problems that might arise. This is especially true for Pomeranian allergies, which can have a devastating effect on a dog if they are not diagnosed and treated in a timely fashion. The good news is that most Pomeranian allergies are fairly easy to identify and treat by removing the culprit causing the reaction, which is often food or fleas.

Working with a veterinarian that is experienced in Pomeranian care is another important step in providing your pet with the best care possible. Find a vet that you and your dog are comfortable with, and stick with the scheduled exams and immunizations to keep your dog looking a feeling his best. Your dog will reward you with enjoyment and companionship for years to come.

Rosie Allan is an expert on British royal dogs and lives in the countryside of London with two Pomeranians. The Pomeranian, a favorite of royalty, is a descendant of the Spitz sled dogs. Queen Victoria of England, who once had 35 Pomeranians, made the dog popular in England in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Helpful Pomeranian information such as that found here is also available at libraries and through the American Kennel Club.

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Posted by Paws and Fur | Just Dogs | April 26, 2008

Why Do Dogs Tilt Their Heads

IMG_2303Top Ten Reasons Why Dogs Tilt Their Heads

1. They think humans look funny.

2. They do not understand what you are saying.

3. They are posing for the camera.

4. They want another treat.

5. They have water in their ears.

6. They have a stiff neck.

7. They believe it is the right thing to do.

8. They have an itch.

9. They saw another dog doing it.

10. They do not know what else to do.

Can you think of a better reason?

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Posted by Paws and Fur | Dog Pen | April 24, 2008

HappyTails Pet Sitting Joins Pet Sitters International

HappyTails Pet Sitting has been accepted for membership in Pet Sitters International (PSI), an organization of more than 7,900 independent professional pet sitting services throughout the United States, Canada and abroad. Founded in 1994, PSI is the world’s largest educational association for professional pet sitters.

For pet owners, in-home pet sitting provides a unique alternative to boarding facilities–or relying on family or neighbors to check on pets. Pet sitters come to the home daily and animals are able to keep their regular routines for meals, walks, medication and one-on-one care and attention. Owners report that their pets experience less stress and adjust better to their owners’ absence when the pets remain in their normal environment.

HappyTails Pet Sitting will service the needs of pet owners including: personalized pet sitting of dogs, cats, birds, fish, reptiles and small animals, dog walking and exercising, mid-day services for potty breaks, plant watering, mail collection, holiday or vacation care, and special care for young, elderly, and sick animals. Daily visits start as low as $12. HappyTails Pet Sitting is fully bonded and insured for all services provided. HappyTails Pet Sitting is also a member of the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters, Inc., Professional United Pet Sitters, and Pet Sitters Associates, LLC.

With membership in PSI, HappyTails Pet Sitting has reinforced its dedication to offering professional, quality services and increasing their knowledge of the pet care industry. Brooke Cunningham and HappyTails Pet Sitting are available for pet sitting in selective Indianapolis areas.

To schedule an initial consultation please call (317) 697-4278 or visit www.happytails-indy.com. For additional information about Pet Sitters International, visit www.petsit.com.

Source: PRWeb

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Posted by Paws and Fur | Pet News | April 21, 2008

What Animal Never Needs A Hair Cut

What animal never needs a hair cut?

 Answer: A bald eagle!

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Posted by Paws and Fur | Animal Jokes | April 20, 2008

Train Your Dog To Walk On A Leash Simple Tip

dog-on-leash.jpgTeaching your dog to walk on a leash is crucial to his and your safety particularly if he’s a big dog. Even walking small dogs that have the propensity to pull their owners could be a jeopardy and an awkward occurrence.

A basic rule is that dogs should never be allowed to break away at will, they should be on a lead at all times unless they’re with you in a secure and safe place.

Dogs need to learn to walk on a leash without pulling your arm out of its joint, and without choking themselves.

As in all additional training methods, begin inside. If you’ve never put a collar on your dog, first you want to lay the collar on the floor and let the dog to smell it. Don’t permit him to play with it or bite it.

The following step you’d require to do is to place the collar around the dog’s neck. Make sure the collar fits closely, but that’s not too tight that would choke your dog. The rule of thumb is that you do not want to be able to put more than two finger breadths between the collar and your dog’s neck. You’ll have to find the proper fit for your dog.

Irrespective of how large your dog will get in the near future, don’t purchase him a leash or collar that is too heavy, and don’t get a collar for a small pup when you have a puppy that already weighs 25 pounds at twelve weeks old, use common sense when fitting the collar. Remember that you little puppy will grow and the collar that you buy when he is 12 weeks might not fit him when he turns 6 months. Consider buying an adjustable dog collar, that will give you flexibility of adjusting the size of the collar as the puppy grows. On the other hand, do not buy a very big collar for a smaller dog, thinking to use it when the dog grows up, if the collar does not fit right when the puppy is little. You do not want your little puppy to get loose from his collar, and this is a common incident that could be dangerous for the puppy, especially if he’s still not trained in the wait or come command.

Then, you might want to attach the lead to his collar and allow him to drag it around for a while, make sure that the leash doesn’t get tangled up in something, like a peace of furniture, since this could potentially hurt your dog.

Don’t leave him unattended during this time. At least allow him to smell and become acquainted the lead. Once again, make certain that the collar and leash are comfortable and fit properly.

With the dog on your left side, hold the lead and reward in your right hand, use your left hand to hold the slack in the lead. Get his attention and give him the “sit” command. As you walk, start off with your left foot, as he walks alongside you; give him the “heel” command.

If he attempts to pull forward, gently pull back on the lead. After the dog has come back to you, or has stopped pulling, allow him to start walking again. Every time he pulls forward, you need to gently, but firmly pull on the opposite direction. What this would do, is to teach your dog that as soon as he continues pulling, he’s going nowhere.

In retrospect, love and patience teaches love and patience, these are both things we want our dogs to know. Dog training is the basis for a dog that everyone enjoys being around, and becomes a happy and healthy dog.

Increase the happy years of your dog by checking out my free e-book. In it I reveal all the secrets I’ve used to develop a happy, healthier dog. Visit Dr. Alfonso’s dog training blog right now…

Increase the happy years of your dog by checking out my free e-book. In it I reveal all the secrets I’ve used to develop a happy, healthier dog. Visit Dr. Alfonso’s dog training blog right now…

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Posted by Paws and Fur | Dog Training | April 19, 2008

Want Control Of The Fleas And Ticks

frontlineplus.jpgIf you have a pet, no doubt you are concerned about its welfare. One major topic that many pet owners and pet lovers are concerned with is controlling the infestation of pests like fleas and ticks. Fleas and ticks can be a bothersome nuisance to both you and your pet dog or pet cat or pet animal.

Fleas are an irritant because their bites form itchy sores on humans. Fleas bite both humans and animals and are blood-sucking insects. They can jump lengths of over a foot, and live as long as several months. If you have children, especially babies, this can be an even bigger concern as the rashes and sores developed from flea bites can potentially be harmful.

Ticks can be harmful to humans as they can potentially transmit the very serious disease called Lyme Disease. Lyme Disease is a bacterial infection that may very well prove to be fatal if not treated.

Although you may love your pet cats and/or dogs, the welfare of yourself and your family should be of the utmost priority. How can you prevent and remedy the infestation of fleas and ticks on your most loves pets? Well, there are many medications and solutions that are created especially for that. Flea and tick remedies such as Frontline and Frontline Plus are made and formulated for cats and dogs of all sizes. It is advertised as the number one choice of flea and tick control by veterinarians. Not only do the make special formulas for cats and dogs of all sizes, they also formulate Frontline for baby cats and baby dogs, puppies and kittens, that are at least 8 weeks or 2 months old.

You do not have to seek the advice or get a prescription from a veterinarian in order to obtain Frontline or Frontline Plus. However, this is recommended as veterinarians are very well-equipped to answer any questions you might have as to if this is a suitable treatment for your pet, if there are any side effects for both pet and humans to using Frontline on your pets, and so on.

Frontline and Frontline Plus is a great remedy for fleas and ticks on your pet cats and dogs. Find great deals on this product at Frontline Flea Control.

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Posted by Paws and Fur | Pet Products | April 19, 2008

Laugh Out Load Cats On Film

Who ever made this placed some really funny sound effects in the perfect spots!

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Posted by Paws and Fur | Funny Pet Videos | April 18, 2008

Improved Joint Health In Cats and Dogs

Promotion Is A High Quality, Patented, Nutraceutical Product Containing Glucosamine, Hydrolyzed Collagen, And The Potent Antioxidant Bioflavanol To Maintain Joint Health In Cats And Dogs. Promotion Provides Joints With The Nutrients They Need To Remain Healthy And Is Proven Safe, Fast, And Effective. Each Tablet Contains 420 Mg Glucosamine. Dosages: 1-12 Lbs: 1 Tablet Per Day. 13-25 Lbs: 2 Tablets Per Day.

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Posted by Paws and Fur | Pet Health, Pet Products | April 16, 2008