Everyone on the spiritual path talks about "awareness, awakening, enlightenment and being conscious.....etc." In our mind we make it very complicated and difficult. In reality it is simply being willing to NOTICE what you are thinking (or saying) about life. As we know, it is NOT about what is happening, but what you THINK about what is happening that counts. And like any other skill, it takes practice, practice, practice. When you learn that you can CHOOSE your thoughts, then you are "aware, awake, enlightened and conscious." When you experience this and know it is true, - this is the "truth that shall set you free".
No longer will it matter what other people say and do, nor what happens around you, because you are focused on what you want and how you feel. If you look around you can see how this works in life. Two role models I know who depict this truth, are the Dalai Lama and Greg Mortensen. You all know the Dalai Lama, and I hope you have read about Greg Mortensen. He has been building schools in Pakistan and Afghanistan for the past 13 years. His books (Three Cups of Tea and Stones Into Schools) are best-sellers and very inspirational. He was second to Barack Obama to get the Nobel Peace Prize, and now he is working with our military forces in Afghanistan to teach them how to become friends with the local people, rather than enemies. He meets and talks regularly with the head of the Joint Chief of Staff, Mike Mullen. All he has done is stay focused on what he wants.
If it works for these two men in war torn countries, then I am certain it works for us in our lives.
Feb 27, 2010
Feb 26, 2010
AP Poll: Pet owners willing to go mouth-to-muzzle
LOS ANGELES — Most pet owners would leap into action for an injured pet, even if it meant risking dog breath by going mouth-to-snout.
Fifty-eight percent of pet owners — 63 percent of dog owners and 53 percent of cat owners — would be at least somewhat likely to perform CPR on their pet in the event of a medical emergency, according to an Associated Press-Petside.com poll.
Tammy Parks, 52, of Amherst, Mass., has taken a pet first aid class and wouldn't hesitate to help her 15-year-old mixed breed terriers, Lucy and Julia, or her white fronted Amazon parrot Koko.
"It's not rocket science. The mechanics are the same as humans," said Parks, who was an American Red Cross first aid trainer. "Size is the biggest difference."
In general, though, the poll found few pet owners are prepared to handle pet emergencies. Just 20 percent of pet owners have a pet first aid kit in their home, and 54 percent do not have a fire evacuation plan for their pets.
And the survey revealed frequent reporting of dangerous practices that can lead to accidents and injuries. For example, a quarter of pet owners, including 30 percent of dog owners and 22 percent of cat owners, give their pets bones from table scraps, at least sometimes.
Sixty-two percent of dog owners and a third of cat owners let their pets ride in their cars unrestrained, rather than placing them in a special pet carrier. And 11 percent of pet owners sometimes leave their pets unattended in a car or truck.
Still, most pet owners said they would go the extra mile to rescue their pets. Women were more likely to say they would perform CPR on their pets than men, 65 percent to 50 percent, the poll showed.
Nearly every decision made at the Parks house is made with the safety of the animals in mind.
"We don't use pesticide on the lawn. We don't buy food with pesticide on it. No sugar, no salt, just natural nuts and fruits. No Teflon in the house, no smoking, no air fresheners, no aerosol products," she said, explaining that any one of those things could kill their 7-year-old bird.
Barbara Klingman of Houma, La., said she changed things after her Chihuahua, Honeychild, ate something that forced an emergency trip to the vet.
"I make sure she doesn't have anything she shouldn't have," Klingman said of the 7-pound, 4-year-old dog.
The poll showed 7 percent of those polled have pets who have eaten something poisonous and 16 percent have pets who have had allergic reactions to something.
There were also threats from pets themselves: 17 percent reported having a pet bitten or attacked by another animal, 9 percent said a pet had bitten or attacked another animal and 5 percent said a pet had bitten or attacked another person.
The poll revealed that 41 percent have experienced at least one pet safety emergency that required an emergency trip to a vet and 11 percent have had a pet hit by a car.
Edwin Griffin Jr., 61, of Plano, Texas, remembers all too well 25 years ago when his white German shepherd ran in front of a car. The dog broke both hips and his jaw, lost an eye and was in intensive care at an animal hospital for two weeks.
"I had just lost my wife the month before. My children were 1 and 3. I mortgaged the car to save my dog because of the impact it would have had on the children," he said.
The dog lived six more years.
Now Buddy, Griffin's 3-year-old golden retriever, has a first aid kit, a carbon monoxide alarm in the room where he sleeps and several designated escape routes for emergencies. But it's Buddy who's come to the rescue of humans in his home, especially Griffin's father-in-law, who is in the final stages of pancreatic cancer.
"My wife's father gets a great deal of relief from being able to touch and rub Buddy. Buddy just stands beside him. He knows that is his role," Griffin said.
Pet safety and CPR training is offered by the American Red Cross and many private companies. "Vets are the experts but they are rarely on scene when something happens to our pets," said Denise Fleck, who runs Sunny-Dog Ink in Burbank and has written pet safety textbooks, appeared on a number of TV shows and taught classes throughout Southern California.
Disaster plans are important, too, especially in areas like Southern California that are at the mercy of earthquakes and fires.
"If people value their pets like a family member, they should know how to do CPR, just like they would for their kids. In disasters, pets get hurt and run into debris and all kinds of things," said Mark Solnick, director of emergency preparedness and response for the Red Cross of Santa Monica.
Laurie Sullivan, 47, of Littlerock, Calif., has three dogs (Elsa Ann, Hope and Schotzie), an Arabian horse (Cary) and 19 cats. She has tended to a wide variety of emergencies over the years. Lucky for her menagerie, she was a certified emergency medical technician and a hospital worker.
She was there to help when one of her dogs choked on a small bone, when one of her cats had a hard time delivering eight kittens, when a neighbor lost the tip of her finger to a horse and for countless everyday cuts, scrapes and bruises.
She has never had to use CPR on an animal, but she knows how to. However, "it would really be hard to give CPR to a horse," she laughed.
The AP-Petside.com poll was conducted Oct. 1-5, 2009, by GfK Roper Public Affairs & Media. It involved telephone interviews on landline and cell phones with 1,166 pet owners nationwide, and has a margin of sampling error of plus or minus 2.9 percentage points for all pet owners.
Fifty-eight percent of pet owners — 63 percent of dog owners and 53 percent of cat owners — would be at least somewhat likely to perform CPR on their pet in the event of a medical emergency, according to an Associated Press-Petside.com poll.
Tammy Parks, 52, of Amherst, Mass., has taken a pet first aid class and wouldn't hesitate to help her 15-year-old mixed breed terriers, Lucy and Julia, or her white fronted Amazon parrot Koko.
"It's not rocket science. The mechanics are the same as humans," said Parks, who was an American Red Cross first aid trainer. "Size is the biggest difference."
In general, though, the poll found few pet owners are prepared to handle pet emergencies. Just 20 percent of pet owners have a pet first aid kit in their home, and 54 percent do not have a fire evacuation plan for their pets.
And the survey revealed frequent reporting of dangerous practices that can lead to accidents and injuries. For example, a quarter of pet owners, including 30 percent of dog owners and 22 percent of cat owners, give their pets bones from table scraps, at least sometimes.
Sixty-two percent of dog owners and a third of cat owners let their pets ride in their cars unrestrained, rather than placing them in a special pet carrier. And 11 percent of pet owners sometimes leave their pets unattended in a car or truck.
Still, most pet owners said they would go the extra mile to rescue their pets. Women were more likely to say they would perform CPR on their pets than men, 65 percent to 50 percent, the poll showed.
Nearly every decision made at the Parks house is made with the safety of the animals in mind.
"We don't use pesticide on the lawn. We don't buy food with pesticide on it. No sugar, no salt, just natural nuts and fruits. No Teflon in the house, no smoking, no air fresheners, no aerosol products," she said, explaining that any one of those things could kill their 7-year-old bird.
Barbara Klingman of Houma, La., said she changed things after her Chihuahua, Honeychild, ate something that forced an emergency trip to the vet.
"I make sure she doesn't have anything she shouldn't have," Klingman said of the 7-pound, 4-year-old dog.
The poll showed 7 percent of those polled have pets who have eaten something poisonous and 16 percent have pets who have had allergic reactions to something.
There were also threats from pets themselves: 17 percent reported having a pet bitten or attacked by another animal, 9 percent said a pet had bitten or attacked another animal and 5 percent said a pet had bitten or attacked another person.
The poll revealed that 41 percent have experienced at least one pet safety emergency that required an emergency trip to a vet and 11 percent have had a pet hit by a car.
Edwin Griffin Jr., 61, of Plano, Texas, remembers all too well 25 years ago when his white German shepherd ran in front of a car. The dog broke both hips and his jaw, lost an eye and was in intensive care at an animal hospital for two weeks.
"I had just lost my wife the month before. My children were 1 and 3. I mortgaged the car to save my dog because of the impact it would have had on the children," he said.
The dog lived six more years.
Now Buddy, Griffin's 3-year-old golden retriever, has a first aid kit, a carbon monoxide alarm in the room where he sleeps and several designated escape routes for emergencies. But it's Buddy who's come to the rescue of humans in his home, especially Griffin's father-in-law, who is in the final stages of pancreatic cancer.
"My wife's father gets a great deal of relief from being able to touch and rub Buddy. Buddy just stands beside him. He knows that is his role," Griffin said.
Pet safety and CPR training is offered by the American Red Cross and many private companies. "Vets are the experts but they are rarely on scene when something happens to our pets," said Denise Fleck, who runs Sunny-Dog Ink in Burbank and has written pet safety textbooks, appeared on a number of TV shows and taught classes throughout Southern California.
Disaster plans are important, too, especially in areas like Southern California that are at the mercy of earthquakes and fires.
"If people value their pets like a family member, they should know how to do CPR, just like they would for their kids. In disasters, pets get hurt and run into debris and all kinds of things," said Mark Solnick, director of emergency preparedness and response for the Red Cross of Santa Monica.
Laurie Sullivan, 47, of Littlerock, Calif., has three dogs (Elsa Ann, Hope and Schotzie), an Arabian horse (Cary) and 19 cats. She has tended to a wide variety of emergencies over the years. Lucky for her menagerie, she was a certified emergency medical technician and a hospital worker.
She was there to help when one of her dogs choked on a small bone, when one of her cats had a hard time delivering eight kittens, when a neighbor lost the tip of her finger to a horse and for countless everyday cuts, scrapes and bruises.
She has never had to use CPR on an animal, but she knows how to. However, "it would really be hard to give CPR to a horse," she laughed.
The AP-Petside.com poll was conducted Oct. 1-5, 2009, by GfK Roper Public Affairs & Media. It involved telephone interviews on landline and cell phones with 1,166 pet owners nationwide, and has a margin of sampling error of plus or minus 2.9 percentage points for all pet owners.
Feb 24, 2010
Canine sports: Putting the fun into dog training
Associated Press
Friday, Oct. 16, 2009
Too often, dog training seems like it's all about saying "No."
"People have the knee-jerk assumption that they seek training to fix something," says Victoria Schade, author of "Bonding With Your Dog."
But if all you think about is stopping bad behavior, you miss the real joy of training: being able to talk to the animals. "Training is about changing the way you communicate with your dog. It's giving you a common language," says Schade.
So how do you train your dog by saying "Yes," rather than "No"?
One way is to get involved in canine sports. And the good news is that they're more available to dog owners than ever before.
The classic traditional obedience exercise is to sit, stay, and do nothing silently. For the dedicated competitor, it's a fascinating challenge and a suspenseful three minutes, but for the rest of us and our dogs it might be a little, well, boring. And if you've seen those agility competitions on TV, where dogs run, jump and climb a course of obstacles, you might worry you're not as athletic as the handlers who are racing alongside.
But a relatively new canine activity, Rally Obedience, combines features of both of those sports in a way that's fun and teaches your dog useful skills. In Rally, you and your dog perform commands in sequence, somewhat like in agility, but without complicated equipment.
"It's real-life training, put to a numbered course in a ring," says Linda Sperco, national Rally coordinator for the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT), which first introduced Rally competitions in 2001. "For instance, you are heeling with your dog on the leash, not pulling, and you come to a sign that asks you to stop and ask your dog to sit."
Rally exercises like this are practical __ think how handy it would be if your dog would stop and sit nicely every time you wait to cross a street. This also allows you to incorporate the training into your daily routine. "You can practice when you're walking your dog, or just out goofing around in the backyard," says Sperco.
And one important feature is that unlike traditional obedience, there are no restrictions on talking to your dog. "Rally allows unlimited communication," says Sperco. You can repeat commands and encourage your dog all you want, just like in your everyday interactions.
Competitions in Rally Obedience are held all over the country by APDT, the American Kennel Club (AKC), and the United Kennel Club (UKC). And the AKC has recently joined the other groups by changing their rules so that mixed breed dogs as well as purebreds can compete. As of Oct. 1, mixed breed owners have been able to enroll their dogs to be eligible to enter AKC competitions starting in the spring.
Rules for Rally differ slightly in the three organizations, but Sperco says that all agree that the point of the sport is "to build a better relationship with your dog." Even competitions, which can sound a little intimidating compared to just taking a training class, are meant to be a positive experience. "It's a fun day out with your dog," says Lisa Peterson of the AKC.
Trainers agree that the skills gained in training for organized dog sports transfer to real life. If there's one thing we all want, it's a dog that listens to us. And, Sperco says, "the people who are most successful are those who work first on attention."
A dog that's engaged in these kinds of activities will have fewer of the behavioral issues that stem from boredom, and the techniques you learn will also help you solve what problems do arise. You learn to really observe your dog, says Schade, and break behavior down into smaller parts that make it possible to attack bigger problems step by step.
But perhaps the most important result is learning what both you and your dog are capable of. For many people, says Schade, the breakthrough is learning that their dog "isn't stupid after all." And, she says, "Training doesn't take whispering abilities or special gifts. Once you understand how it works, everyone can do it."
ON THE WEB
To find trainers and classes with the Association of Pet Dog Trainers: http://apdt.com/
To find AKC clubs that offer training classes: http://www.akc.org/events/obedience/training(underscore)clubs/
To enroll in AKC mixed breed program: http://www.akc.org/mixedbreeds/
Victoria Schade's Web site: http://www.lifeontheleash.com/
Friday, Oct. 16, 2009
Too often, dog training seems like it's all about saying "No."
"People have the knee-jerk assumption that they seek training to fix something," says Victoria Schade, author of "Bonding With Your Dog."
But if all you think about is stopping bad behavior, you miss the real joy of training: being able to talk to the animals. "Training is about changing the way you communicate with your dog. It's giving you a common language," says Schade.
So how do you train your dog by saying "Yes," rather than "No"?
One way is to get involved in canine sports. And the good news is that they're more available to dog owners than ever before.
The classic traditional obedience exercise is to sit, stay, and do nothing silently. For the dedicated competitor, it's a fascinating challenge and a suspenseful three minutes, but for the rest of us and our dogs it might be a little, well, boring. And if you've seen those agility competitions on TV, where dogs run, jump and climb a course of obstacles, you might worry you're not as athletic as the handlers who are racing alongside.
But a relatively new canine activity, Rally Obedience, combines features of both of those sports in a way that's fun and teaches your dog useful skills. In Rally, you and your dog perform commands in sequence, somewhat like in agility, but without complicated equipment.
"It's real-life training, put to a numbered course in a ring," says Linda Sperco, national Rally coordinator for the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT), which first introduced Rally competitions in 2001. "For instance, you are heeling with your dog on the leash, not pulling, and you come to a sign that asks you to stop and ask your dog to sit."
Rally exercises like this are practical __ think how handy it would be if your dog would stop and sit nicely every time you wait to cross a street. This also allows you to incorporate the training into your daily routine. "You can practice when you're walking your dog, or just out goofing around in the backyard," says Sperco.
And one important feature is that unlike traditional obedience, there are no restrictions on talking to your dog. "Rally allows unlimited communication," says Sperco. You can repeat commands and encourage your dog all you want, just like in your everyday interactions.
Competitions in Rally Obedience are held all over the country by APDT, the American Kennel Club (AKC), and the United Kennel Club (UKC). And the AKC has recently joined the other groups by changing their rules so that mixed breed dogs as well as purebreds can compete. As of Oct. 1, mixed breed owners have been able to enroll their dogs to be eligible to enter AKC competitions starting in the spring.
Rules for Rally differ slightly in the three organizations, but Sperco says that all agree that the point of the sport is "to build a better relationship with your dog." Even competitions, which can sound a little intimidating compared to just taking a training class, are meant to be a positive experience. "It's a fun day out with your dog," says Lisa Peterson of the AKC.
Trainers agree that the skills gained in training for organized dog sports transfer to real life. If there's one thing we all want, it's a dog that listens to us. And, Sperco says, "the people who are most successful are those who work first on attention."
A dog that's engaged in these kinds of activities will have fewer of the behavioral issues that stem from boredom, and the techniques you learn will also help you solve what problems do arise. You learn to really observe your dog, says Schade, and break behavior down into smaller parts that make it possible to attack bigger problems step by step.
But perhaps the most important result is learning what both you and your dog are capable of. For many people, says Schade, the breakthrough is learning that their dog "isn't stupid after all." And, she says, "Training doesn't take whispering abilities or special gifts. Once you understand how it works, everyone can do it."
ON THE WEB
To find trainers and classes with the Association of Pet Dog Trainers: http://apdt.com/
To find AKC clubs that offer training classes: http://www.akc.org/events/obedience/training(underscore)clubs/
To enroll in AKC mixed breed program: http://www.akc.org/mixedbreeds/
Victoria Schade's Web site: http://www.lifeontheleash.com/
Feb 23, 2010
Happy tales for some former fighting dogs
Associated Press
Thursday, Nov. 12, 2009
ST. LOUIS - Dozens of American pit bull terriers netted in the largest dogfighting raid in U.S. history are finding homes despite some who predicted aggression or trauma would make them unsuitable as pets.
More than 120 of the animals have been placed in foster homes or are headed there this week through the efforts of pit bull rescue groups throughout the U.S. An additional 117, like the scarred but smiling Tulip, await their turn.
"They are not a vicious animal. They are the victims of abuse," said Debbie Hill, vice president of operations for the Humane Society of Missouri. "That face and their eyes tell the story. They only want to be in someone's home, on a couch, or sleeping at someone's feet, maybe chew up a rug or two for entertainment. They're learning for the first time how to be a dog."
In the days leading up to the July 8 raid, the Humane Society secured a cavernous industrial warehouse in St. Louis that it transformed into an emergency shelter for the hundreds of dogs seized in Missouri and Illinois. About 100 dogs seized in other states were taken by rescue groups elsewhere.
Once at the Missouri shelter, dogs were tested by a national team of certified animal behaviorists, taken on walks, and allowed to chew on bowling balls stuffed with peanut butter. Some finicky eaters were treated to home-cooked chicken breasts to supplement meals of dog food.
The Human Society offered The Associated Press first access to the site Tuesday. During the tour, puppies born since the raid took turns playing tug of war with a chew toy in a play room. Humane Society staff members pulled a catering cart down a long row of dog cages, calling animals by name as they slid them bowls of food.
Some, like Pacific, were shy, quivering in fear of new visitors. Others were extroverts, springing on hind legs to say hello.
The foster homes will acclimate the dogs to the noises and rules of a household, and teach them basic manners.
Animal behaviorist Pamela Reid, who was part of the team that evaluated the dogs, said a surprising two-thirds tested well for nonaggression and adoptability. She's fostering one puppy, although one her favorite dogs had to be euthanized because he showed aggression toward men.
Hill said 160 dogs were put down because of injuries, illness or behavior. None of the puppies showed aggression, Reid said.
Tim Rickey, who heads the Humane Society's anticruelty task force, said the raids proved the underground dogfighting industry is pervasive.
"We scratched the surface," Rickey said. "We could have done several of these (raids) in Missouri alone."
ON THE NET:
Humane Society of Missouri: http://www.hsmo.org/
Thursday, Nov. 12, 2009
ST. LOUIS - Dozens of American pit bull terriers netted in the largest dogfighting raid in U.S. history are finding homes despite some who predicted aggression or trauma would make them unsuitable as pets.
More than 120 of the animals have been placed in foster homes or are headed there this week through the efforts of pit bull rescue groups throughout the U.S. An additional 117, like the scarred but smiling Tulip, await their turn.
"They are not a vicious animal. They are the victims of abuse," said Debbie Hill, vice president of operations for the Humane Society of Missouri. "That face and their eyes tell the story. They only want to be in someone's home, on a couch, or sleeping at someone's feet, maybe chew up a rug or two for entertainment. They're learning for the first time how to be a dog."
In the days leading up to the July 8 raid, the Humane Society secured a cavernous industrial warehouse in St. Louis that it transformed into an emergency shelter for the hundreds of dogs seized in Missouri and Illinois. About 100 dogs seized in other states were taken by rescue groups elsewhere.
Once at the Missouri shelter, dogs were tested by a national team of certified animal behaviorists, taken on walks, and allowed to chew on bowling balls stuffed with peanut butter. Some finicky eaters were treated to home-cooked chicken breasts to supplement meals of dog food.
The Human Society offered The Associated Press first access to the site Tuesday. During the tour, puppies born since the raid took turns playing tug of war with a chew toy in a play room. Humane Society staff members pulled a catering cart down a long row of dog cages, calling animals by name as they slid them bowls of food.
Some, like Pacific, were shy, quivering in fear of new visitors. Others were extroverts, springing on hind legs to say hello.
The foster homes will acclimate the dogs to the noises and rules of a household, and teach them basic manners.
Animal behaviorist Pamela Reid, who was part of the team that evaluated the dogs, said a surprising two-thirds tested well for nonaggression and adoptability. She's fostering one puppy, although one her favorite dogs had to be euthanized because he showed aggression toward men.
Hill said 160 dogs were put down because of injuries, illness or behavior. None of the puppies showed aggression, Reid said.
Tim Rickey, who heads the Humane Society's anticruelty task force, said the raids proved the underground dogfighting industry is pervasive.
"We scratched the surface," Rickey said. "We could have done several of these (raids) in Missouri alone."
ON THE NET:
Humane Society of Missouri: http://www.hsmo.org/
Feb 20, 2010
Natural Remedies for Arthritis Pain Relief - How to Avoid the Side Effects of Drugs
Anyone with arthritis knows what it's like to be in constant
pain and not even have the strength or energy required to
accomplish some of the most basic daily tasks, such as removing
the lid from a jar.
Arthritis -- in any of its 100+ variations -- is a truly
debilitating illness, affecting in excess of 40 million Americans
(almost 1 in 5 adults) and many more millions worldwide. And,
despite beliefs to the contrary, arthritis is not an illness
restricted to the elderly -- anyone, children and animals
included, can become an arthritis sufferer at any time.
It's well known that no medical cure currently exists for
arthritis. It's a chronic, degenerative illness that, once
contracted, stays with the sufferer for life. Not a very
comforting thought. It's not even clear what triggers arthritis
in most cases, although there can be hereditary links.
Regular medicine provides a number of drugs to treat arthritis,
if only in terms of pain management rather than reversal of the
condition. As mentioned, arthritis is a chronic, degenerative
condition that cannot, at the present time, be reversed.
Available drugs -- COX-2 inhibitors and NSAIDs (non-steroidal
anti-inflammatory drugs) -- are proven to be effective in most
cases but they can only help control the pain....and they come at
a cost.
Firstly, there is the monetary cost which can run to hundreds of
dollars per month -- insurance will, no doubt, cover the cost for
many people but for how long?
Secondly, and of far more concern, is the potential cost to the
patient's long-term health from potential addiction and reported
side effects, the most serious of which can include severe
toxicity of the kidneys, liver and bone marrow. There has even
been a case in recent years of one arthritis-treating drug being
withdrawn from the market by its manufacturer due to increased
risk of heart failure and strokes -- this is very worrying! Lots
of information about this can be found on a number of health news
websites - just type Vioxx into a search engine.
Against this background it's no surprise that more and more
people are looking to alternative treatments for their arthritic
condition. And it's why the natural remedies for arthritis pain
relief have such high perceived value; anything that can reduce
pain and at the same time help increase strength and energy with
few or no side effects must surely be worth trying out, right?
There are a number of readily available dietary supplements that
have the potential to bring significant pain relief to arthritis
sufferers. Some of these supplements such as glucosamine sulfate
and chondroitin sulfate are very well known and have been
extensively studied by the scientific community and there appears
to be very good evidence of efficacy.
Another product, rosehip (Rosa Canina), is a more recent
discovery in terms of arthritic pain relief but scientific
studies -- most notably in Europe -- suggest this is a very
promising, all-natural, pain-relieving supplement which offers a
herbal alternative to the animal and marine extracts used in the
manufacture of glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin sulfate.
Unfortunately, because of the vast sums of money involved in
arthritic pain management there are many false claims made on
behalf of totally ineffective or even fake products that are
promoted as wonder cures for arthritis.
The problem for many people is knowing just what is genuine and
what is fake. There is no simple answer other than to search for
the evidence. This does not mean the testimonials on retailers'
or manufacturers' websites -- after all, these companies have an
interest in presenting their products in the most favorable
light. Of course, where a company can show hundreds of
testimonials for a single product rather than just a handful it
might be a little more meaningful (think of Amazon, for example).
Anyone thinking of taking natural remedies to aid arthritis pain
relief needs first to look for evidence of qualified medical or
scientific studies for those specific products and to see what
conclusions are reached. The scientific researchers will have put
time and rigor into their studies -- not to mention putting their
own reputations on the line.
The message is simple: if you are thinking of using a dietary
supplement -- whether for arthritis pain relief or any other
reason -- don't just rely on what the manufacturers say. Use the
available independent evidence to save yourself time, money and
further anguish.
----------------------------------------------------------
Gary Docherty has been an arthritis sufferer for
more than 10 years and is owner of the website
http://www.FindEffectiveSupplements.com/
It took Gary 6 years to find a natural alternative to regular
drugs for his pain management. FindEffectiveSupplements.com
can help you find your way to natural remedies for arthritis
(http://www.findeffectivesupplements.com/arthritis/natural-remedies-for-arthritis.html)
pain relief and other effective dietary
supplements much more quickly.
Dark Chocolate
pain and not even have the strength or energy required to
accomplish some of the most basic daily tasks, such as removing
the lid from a jar.
Arthritis -- in any of its 100+ variations -- is a truly
debilitating illness, affecting in excess of 40 million Americans
(almost 1 in 5 adults) and many more millions worldwide. And,
despite beliefs to the contrary, arthritis is not an illness
restricted to the elderly -- anyone, children and animals
included, can become an arthritis sufferer at any time.
It's well known that no medical cure currently exists for
arthritis. It's a chronic, degenerative illness that, once
contracted, stays with the sufferer for life. Not a very
comforting thought. It's not even clear what triggers arthritis
in most cases, although there can be hereditary links.
Regular medicine provides a number of drugs to treat arthritis,
if only in terms of pain management rather than reversal of the
condition. As mentioned, arthritis is a chronic, degenerative
condition that cannot, at the present time, be reversed.
Available drugs -- COX-2 inhibitors and NSAIDs (non-steroidal
anti-inflammatory drugs) -- are proven to be effective in most
cases but they can only help control the pain....and they come at
a cost.
Firstly, there is the monetary cost which can run to hundreds of
dollars per month -- insurance will, no doubt, cover the cost for
many people but for how long?
Secondly, and of far more concern, is the potential cost to the
patient's long-term health from potential addiction and reported
side effects, the most serious of which can include severe
toxicity of the kidneys, liver and bone marrow. There has even
been a case in recent years of one arthritis-treating drug being
withdrawn from the market by its manufacturer due to increased
risk of heart failure and strokes -- this is very worrying! Lots
of information about this can be found on a number of health news
websites - just type Vioxx into a search engine.
Against this background it's no surprise that more and more
people are looking to alternative treatments for their arthritic
condition. And it's why the natural remedies for arthritis pain
relief have such high perceived value; anything that can reduce
pain and at the same time help increase strength and energy with
few or no side effects must surely be worth trying out, right?
There are a number of readily available dietary supplements that
have the potential to bring significant pain relief to arthritis
sufferers. Some of these supplements such as glucosamine sulfate
and chondroitin sulfate are very well known and have been
extensively studied by the scientific community and there appears
to be very good evidence of efficacy.
Another product, rosehip (Rosa Canina), is a more recent
discovery in terms of arthritic pain relief but scientific
studies -- most notably in Europe -- suggest this is a very
promising, all-natural, pain-relieving supplement which offers a
herbal alternative to the animal and marine extracts used in the
manufacture of glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin sulfate.
Unfortunately, because of the vast sums of money involved in
arthritic pain management there are many false claims made on
behalf of totally ineffective or even fake products that are
promoted as wonder cures for arthritis.
The problem for many people is knowing just what is genuine and
what is fake. There is no simple answer other than to search for
the evidence. This does not mean the testimonials on retailers'
or manufacturers' websites -- after all, these companies have an
interest in presenting their products in the most favorable
light. Of course, where a company can show hundreds of
testimonials for a single product rather than just a handful it
might be a little more meaningful (think of Amazon, for example).
Anyone thinking of taking natural remedies to aid arthritis pain
relief needs first to look for evidence of qualified medical or
scientific studies for those specific products and to see what
conclusions are reached. The scientific researchers will have put
time and rigor into their studies -- not to mention putting their
own reputations on the line.
The message is simple: if you are thinking of using a dietary
supplement -- whether for arthritis pain relief or any other
reason -- don't just rely on what the manufacturers say. Use the
available independent evidence to save yourself time, money and
further anguish.
----------------------------------------------------------
Gary Docherty has been an arthritis sufferer for
more than 10 years and is owner of the website
http://www.FindEffectiveSupplements.com/
It took Gary 6 years to find a natural alternative to regular
drugs for his pain management. FindEffectiveSupplements.com
can help you find your way to natural remedies for arthritis
(http://www.findeffectivesupplements.com/arthritis/natural-remedies-for-arthritis.html)
pain relief and other effective dietary
supplements much more quickly.
Dark Chocolate
Feb 16, 2010
Great post on Paw Nation!
Last week, the New York Times "Complaint Box" column took on a thorny issue: Are dogs too welcome in the city's public spaces?
After seeing dogs cavorting around Banana Republic, the Gap, furniture stores and even grocery stores, Barbara Rosenblatt wrote that she's had enough. "Animals are joining the ranks of small, bored children who must accompany their grown-ups just about everyplace," she wrote. "Perhaps what it will take to keep animals out of stores is a few too many paw prints on the merchandise, or a deposit by a dog that mistook a rug for a sidewalk."
Erica Manfred fired back, arguing that her 11-pound mutt deserves to go where she goes. "Well, I'm into my second adolescence and I've become a rebellious old lady. I take Shadow wherever I go because he makes my life bearable, and I don't care what anyone thinks," she wrote.
Whether or not Manfred cares if she's annoying other patrons with her canine cutie, plenty of readers were worked up enough to get into the fray. In fact, the Times received more than 500 comments from readers on both sides of the debate. One reader complained about health violations of dogs sniffing, licking and even pooping in food-service stores.
Another was more irritated by dog owners than dogs themselves. "Dog owners are worse than smokers in their inflated sense of entitlement," the reader commented. "Because they think their dogs are 'cute,' you should excuse their rude behavior."
Not surprisingly, there were dissenters. One commenter argued that most dogs are better behaved than most kids. "I don't like listening to wailing babies and whining children or their parents hissing at them," one reader wrote. "Leave the kids at home, please, and bring the dogs on!"
Clearly, New Yorkers are sharpening their claws over this contentious issue. Which side of the debate do you stand on?
Great post on Paw Nation!
After seeing dogs cavorting around Banana Republic, the Gap, furniture stores and even grocery stores, Barbara Rosenblatt wrote that she's had enough. "Animals are joining the ranks of small, bored children who must accompany their grown-ups just about everyplace," she wrote. "Perhaps what it will take to keep animals out of stores is a few too many paw prints on the merchandise, or a deposit by a dog that mistook a rug for a sidewalk."
Erica Manfred fired back, arguing that her 11-pound mutt deserves to go where she goes. "Well, I'm into my second adolescence and I've become a rebellious old lady. I take Shadow wherever I go because he makes my life bearable, and I don't care what anyone thinks," she wrote.
Whether or not Manfred cares if she's annoying other patrons with her canine cutie, plenty of readers were worked up enough to get into the fray. In fact, the Times received more than 500 comments from readers on both sides of the debate. One reader complained about health violations of dogs sniffing, licking and even pooping in food-service stores.
Another was more irritated by dog owners than dogs themselves. "Dog owners are worse than smokers in their inflated sense of entitlement," the reader commented. "Because they think their dogs are 'cute,' you should excuse their rude behavior."
Not surprisingly, there were dissenters. One commenter argued that most dogs are better behaved than most kids. "I don't like listening to wailing babies and whining children or their parents hissing at them," one reader wrote. "Leave the kids at home, please, and bring the dogs on!"
Clearly, New Yorkers are sharpening their claws over this contentious issue. Which side of the debate do you stand on?
Great post on Paw Nation!
Feb 14, 2010
Happy Valentine's Day
Won't you please be my Valentine this year. I am begging you.
Love isn't just for the birds
Love is in the Air, Just wish it wasn't on my head
Happy Valentine's Day!
Feb 12, 2010
While You're Away
Thanks to the Internet, it takes only a few minutes to find the most desirable five-star hotel anywhere in the world. However, when it comes to looking for the best place to care for a pet for a night or longer, there are no shortcuts. Unless someone you trust supplies a personal recommendation, you’ll have to make multiple phone calls and put in some legwork.
A good place to start is the Yellow Pages. While animal lovers used to have limited care options, these days, kennels, catteries and pet hotels are available, as well as people who will care for your pet in their home and pet-sitters who will visit your home.
A pet-sitter should be anyone’s first choice, particularly for pets that are easily traumatized by boarding in unfamiliar territory. Reliable sitters can take the anxiety out of leaving a pet behind because animals, like people, are much happier and more comfortable with the sights, sounds and smells of their own environment. Animals naturally function better when they can keep their regular routine.
More serious sitters are licensed, bonded, insured and listed on the Internet by zip code, on sites such as PetSitters.org, sponsored by the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters. SitterPortal.com is another clearinghouse.
Require personal references for any sitter that you think you might employ and don’t be afraid to ask pertinent questions, such as how many times a day will they visit, when and for how long? Services typically include feeding, playtime, exercise and administering medication when necessary. Ask them what they would do if they were unable to give necessary medication to an aggressive or uncooperative pet. Give them the name, telephone number, address and directions to the family veterinarian, in case of an emergency, and leave a signed letter outlining your wishes if the pet is seriously ill or injured. Include details of how much you are prepared to pay for treatment.
If you prefer to place a pet in a boarding facility, visit it beforehand to check out its cleanliness and safety standards. Ask about their vaccination policy, possible mandatory flea bath (chemical versus nontoxic), practices involved in medicating a pet or attending to their medical needs, and where the animal would be taken in an emergency. Ensure that they are fully insured against any negligence by their staff and ask about an owner’s liability and responsibility in situations where a pet may inflict harm on another animal or human. Request the name of the veterinarian used by the facility and ask if the family vet can be a substitute.
Many kennels insist on up-to-date vaccinations prior to boarding, even though pets no longer require annual immunizations. Check if the kennel will accept pets accompanied by a letter from a veterinarian showing the results of a blood titer test, which measures the antibody level against the disease for which the pet has been immunized.
When it’s time to re-collect a beloved pet, keep in mind that boarding generally causes stress and symptoms like diarrhea, which may last for a few days past a joyous reunion and return home.
Whichever option you choose, it’s best to be able to travel content in the knowledge that your pet is happy, safe and in good hands.
A good place to start is the Yellow Pages. While animal lovers used to have limited care options, these days, kennels, catteries and pet hotels are available, as well as people who will care for your pet in their home and pet-sitters who will visit your home.
A pet-sitter should be anyone’s first choice, particularly for pets that are easily traumatized by boarding in unfamiliar territory. Reliable sitters can take the anxiety out of leaving a pet behind because animals, like people, are much happier and more comfortable with the sights, sounds and smells of their own environment. Animals naturally function better when they can keep their regular routine.
More serious sitters are licensed, bonded, insured and listed on the Internet by zip code, on sites such as PetSitters.org, sponsored by the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters. SitterPortal.com is another clearinghouse.
Require personal references for any sitter that you think you might employ and don’t be afraid to ask pertinent questions, such as how many times a day will they visit, when and for how long? Services typically include feeding, playtime, exercise and administering medication when necessary. Ask them what they would do if they were unable to give necessary medication to an aggressive or uncooperative pet. Give them the name, telephone number, address and directions to the family veterinarian, in case of an emergency, and leave a signed letter outlining your wishes if the pet is seriously ill or injured. Include details of how much you are prepared to pay for treatment.
If you prefer to place a pet in a boarding facility, visit it beforehand to check out its cleanliness and safety standards. Ask about their vaccination policy, possible mandatory flea bath (chemical versus nontoxic), practices involved in medicating a pet or attending to their medical needs, and where the animal would be taken in an emergency. Ensure that they are fully insured against any negligence by their staff and ask about an owner’s liability and responsibility in situations where a pet may inflict harm on another animal or human. Request the name of the veterinarian used by the facility and ask if the family vet can be a substitute.
Many kennels insist on up-to-date vaccinations prior to boarding, even though pets no longer require annual immunizations. Check if the kennel will accept pets accompanied by a letter from a veterinarian showing the results of a blood titer test, which measures the antibody level against the disease for which the pet has been immunized.
When it’s time to re-collect a beloved pet, keep in mind that boarding generally causes stress and symptoms like diarrhea, which may last for a few days past a joyous reunion and return home.
Whichever option you choose, it’s best to be able to travel content in the knowledge that your pet is happy, safe and in good hands.
Feb 10, 2010
Cats are trainable - and that's not a punchline
People have low expectations of cats.
Sam Connelly tells of the time that she and her cat Storm observed a Canine Good Citizen test while they were waiting for their feline agility class to start.
"I'm watching the dogs and I commented to the evaluator, 'My cat can do all that,'" said Connelly. "At the end she said, 'Want to take a shot?' like it was a big joke."
To the evaluator's surprise, Storm passed the test, successfully performing commands like sit, stay, come, down, and walking on a leash.
Storm is a cat who does some of these things for a living. He helps Connelly train lost pet search dogs in Maryland by hiding and waiting to be found.
But training cats isn't just for professionals — human or feline. The Michigan Humane Society has a Pawsitive Start program that uses volunteers to train cats in their shelter in useful and fun behaviors like the high-five and walking into a carrier.
"A lot of people look kind of funny at us when we say we train the shelter cats," says CJ Bentley of the humane society. Cats need more than just playtime outside the cage to be well-adjusted in the shelter environment, she says.
"It's not just all about the physical, it's the mental as well," says Bentley. "To teach them to be able to solve problems on their own can reduce the stress. It gives them control over a situation."
It's not just shelter cats that need more, though. People expect pet cats to "just hang out, which isn't realistic," says Melissa Chan, behavior specialist at the Houston SPCA. Cats are naturally active animals, she says, and "one thing I wish I could tell every cat owner: Cats want to work for their food."
Having your cat touch your hand with its nose on command is one of the easiest behaviors to train, Chan says. If you hold out your hand, most cats will naturally sniff it. Reward with a treat until the cat is doing it every time you present your hand. Then, start repeating a word like "touch" every time.
This trick can then be used to get the cat to move where you want it by placing your hand in the desired spot. "You can use it to ask them to get off the couch, or teach them to jump through a hoop by putting the hand on the other side of the hoop," Chan says.
Another useful behavior is entering the cat carrier on their own. Sandy Lagreca, a volunteer at the Michigan Humane Society, says that this is great for both cats and people: "They go in without having to be picked up and shoved into the crate, which can be traumatic for the owner."
All this requires is patience, repetition and a highly desired treat. Throw the treat into the crate (and if your cat is already suspicious of the carrier, step away). Let the cat go in, eat the treat, and leave, repeating until it's completely comfortable going into the carrier. Then, start to close the door and leave the cat inside for increasingly longer intervals. Again, repeat till the cat is comfortable before you try to pick up the carrier.
Chan says that people often don't think cats are trainable because they lack a dog's desire to please, "but we have things that cats want. That's all that matters." Figure out what your cat will work for — it may be a little tuna, a bit of canned food on the end of a chopstick, or maybe a toss of a toy mouse.
Connelly says to keep training sessions short — she recommends no more than five minutes — and varied. "Teach something else when they get one thing right," she says. "Cats get bored easily."
In addition to the specific useful behaviors, Bentley says, training can help prevent problems by changing the terms of your relationship with your pet. "The animal learns, when I do this, you're happy and I get a piece of food, I guess I should focus on making you happy," she says. "Teaching our cats to successfully do what we like and get rewarded makes them more inclined to do what we like."
And it's also rewarding to see that your cat is capable of so much more than lying on the couch. Says Lagreca, "It's fun to watch the progression and see the lights go on — when they make that connection it's a magical moment."
ON THE NET:
http://www.puregoldpettrackers.com/
http://www.michiganhumane.org/
Reprinted from: Associated PressSunday, Nov. 15, 2009
Feb 8, 2010
Canine Humor
Dogs have a sense of humor, which is distinct from mere play. If you though a stick or other object, they will often carry it a short distance, nd then squatting down with it on the ground close before him. They will wait until thier owner comes close to him and then will sieze the object and run away with tiuph, laughing all the way. Dogs may not have a sense of humor like us but they have one and they enjoy playing practical jokes on thier love ones.
Below are the most playful breeds:
1. Irish setter
2. English sprnger spaniel
3. Miniature Schnauzer
4. Cairn Terrier
5. Airedale Terrier
6. Standard Poodle
7. Shetland Sheepdog
8. Golden Retriever
9. Australian Shepherd
10. Miniature poodle
11. German Shortaired pointer
Above Average Playfulness:
1. Vizsla fox terrier
2. Labrador Retriever
3. Boston Terrier
4. Yorkshire Terrier
5. West Highland White Terrier
6. Toy Poodle
7. German Shepherd
8. Silky Terrier
9. Welsh corgi
10. Shih-Tzu
Average Playfulness:
1. Dachshund
2. Weimaraner
3. bichon Frse
4. Cocker Spaniel
5. Scottish Terrier
6. Dalmatian
7. Boxer
8. Pug
9. Maltese
10. Beagle
11. Collie
12. Brittany Spaniel
Below Average Playfulness:
1. Norwegian Elkhound
2. Doberman Pinscher
3. Cesapeake Bay Retriever
4. Siberian Husky
5. Kesshond
6. Afghan Hound
7. Pomeranian
8. Lhasa Apso
9. Newfoundland
10. English Sheepdog
11. Great Dane
Least Playful Breeds
1. Samoyed
2. Chihuahua
3. Rottwiler
4. Pekingese
5. Akit
6. Alasan Malamute
7. Sain Bernard
8. Basset Hound
9. Chow Chow
10. Bulldog
11. Bloodhound
Do you agree or disagree with the list above.
Below are the most playful breeds:
1. Irish setter
2. English sprnger spaniel
3. Miniature Schnauzer
4. Cairn Terrier
5. Airedale Terrier
6. Standard Poodle
7. Shetland Sheepdog
8. Golden Retriever
9. Australian Shepherd
10. Miniature poodle
11. German Shortaired pointer
Above Average Playfulness:
1. Vizsla fox terrier
2. Labrador Retriever
3. Boston Terrier
4. Yorkshire Terrier
5. West Highland White Terrier
6. Toy Poodle
7. German Shepherd
8. Silky Terrier
9. Welsh corgi
10. Shih-Tzu
Average Playfulness:
1. Dachshund
2. Weimaraner
3. bichon Frse
4. Cocker Spaniel
5. Scottish Terrier
6. Dalmatian
7. Boxer
8. Pug
9. Maltese
10. Beagle
11. Collie
12. Brittany Spaniel
Below Average Playfulness:
1. Norwegian Elkhound
2. Doberman Pinscher
3. Cesapeake Bay Retriever
4. Siberian Husky
5. Kesshond
6. Afghan Hound
7. Pomeranian
8. Lhasa Apso
9. Newfoundland
10. English Sheepdog
11. Great Dane
Least Playful Breeds
1. Samoyed
2. Chihuahua
3. Rottwiler
4. Pekingese
5. Akit
6. Alasan Malamute
7. Sain Bernard
8. Basset Hound
9. Chow Chow
10. Bulldog
11. Bloodhound
Do you agree or disagree with the list above.
Feb 6, 2010
Feb 5, 2010
The 10 Most Popular Cat Breeds
1. THE PERSIAN
Number one since the CFA first started keeping records in 1871! Although Persians are high-maintenance and need grooming every day, this is more than compensated for by their affectionate and loyal personality.
2. THE MAINE COON
This enormous all-American cat has been in second place since 1992. Maine Coons are one of the biggest domestic breeds. Males average 12 to 18 pounds in weight and females are usually 10-14. They are hardy, gentle and loving with long fur but don't need as much grooming as a Persian.
3. THE EXOTIC
These are also known as exotic shorthairs and are rounded and solid in appearance. This cat is like a Persian but with short fur. Some people call them 'a Persian in pyjamas'! They have the sweet personality of the Persian but only need combing twice a week.
4. THE SIAMESE
These cats are very communicative, yowling in a rasping voice for attention or just to chat! They are slim and athletic with large ears. Their fur is short and lies close to their skin. They love to be stroked, and are extremely loyal and close to one person. They are very intelligent and loving.
5. THE ABYSSINIAN
It is said that these pretty cats are descended from those worshipped by the ancient Egyptians - but no one knows for sure. Their coat is ticked with colors. Abyssinians are very active, busy and playful, and they love people.
6. THE RAGDOLL
Ragdolls, or 'Raggies' are extremely cute cats. They are called Ragdolls because when you pick one up, it goes completely limp in your arms! They are another large breed with males growing anything up to 20 pounds and females 15. They have blue eyes and mid-length, silky fur. They are extraordinarily affectionate and will follow you everywhere.
They are so docile that it can be dangerous for them to go out as they wouldn't defend themselves if another animal attacked them.
7. THE BIRMAN
This blue eyed cat also glories in the name of the Sacred Cat of Burma! They have characteristic white paws, making them look as if they are wearing little white boots. They have even temperaments, and are known for adjusting to your daily routine. A Birman will often be waiting for you when you get home from work (as do Siamese and Orientals). Although their fur is long and silky, they don't require much grooming.
8. THE AMERICAN SHORTHAIR
These look like regular tabbies but true American Shorthairs are pure-bred. These cats originally arrived in America on the "Mayflower" with the pilgrims. They are good hunters, have a loving nature, general good health, a quiet temperament, and they are great with children. They come in a multitude of color combinations, the most popular being silver. More than a third of all American Shorthairs have this coloring of black 'stripes' on a beautiful silver background.
9. THE ORIENTAL
This breed looks and behaves just like a Siamese but is available in two different hair lengths and over 300 different color combinations. They also have very sweet natures, and have many of the characteristics of Siamese, though they don't quite talk as loudly. But they are very affectionate and loyal, very people-oriented.
10. THE SPHYNX
This extraordinary naked cat has a rather bizarre appearance. Strangely, they are available in a multitude of colors, albeit skin colors rather than fur! They are lively and athletic, and enjoy climbing. They are loyal, loving and constantly demand attention.
Number one since the CFA first started keeping records in 1871! Although Persians are high-maintenance and need grooming every day, this is more than compensated for by their affectionate and loyal personality.
2. THE MAINE COON
This enormous all-American cat has been in second place since 1992. Maine Coons are one of the biggest domestic breeds. Males average 12 to 18 pounds in weight and females are usually 10-14. They are hardy, gentle and loving with long fur but don't need as much grooming as a Persian.
3. THE EXOTIC
These are also known as exotic shorthairs and are rounded and solid in appearance. This cat is like a Persian but with short fur. Some people call them 'a Persian in pyjamas'! They have the sweet personality of the Persian but only need combing twice a week.
4. THE SIAMESE
These cats are very communicative, yowling in a rasping voice for attention or just to chat! They are slim and athletic with large ears. Their fur is short and lies close to their skin. They love to be stroked, and are extremely loyal and close to one person. They are very intelligent and loving.
5. THE ABYSSINIAN
It is said that these pretty cats are descended from those worshipped by the ancient Egyptians - but no one knows for sure. Their coat is ticked with colors. Abyssinians are very active, busy and playful, and they love people.
6. THE RAGDOLL
Ragdolls, or 'Raggies' are extremely cute cats. They are called Ragdolls because when you pick one up, it goes completely limp in your arms! They are another large breed with males growing anything up to 20 pounds and females 15. They have blue eyes and mid-length, silky fur. They are extraordinarily affectionate and will follow you everywhere.
They are so docile that it can be dangerous for them to go out as they wouldn't defend themselves if another animal attacked them.
7. THE BIRMAN
This blue eyed cat also glories in the name of the Sacred Cat of Burma! They have characteristic white paws, making them look as if they are wearing little white boots. They have even temperaments, and are known for adjusting to your daily routine. A Birman will often be waiting for you when you get home from work (as do Siamese and Orientals). Although their fur is long and silky, they don't require much grooming.
8. THE AMERICAN SHORTHAIR
These look like regular tabbies but true American Shorthairs are pure-bred. These cats originally arrived in America on the "Mayflower" with the pilgrims. They are good hunters, have a loving nature, general good health, a quiet temperament, and they are great with children. They come in a multitude of color combinations, the most popular being silver. More than a third of all American Shorthairs have this coloring of black 'stripes' on a beautiful silver background.
9. THE ORIENTAL
This breed looks and behaves just like a Siamese but is available in two different hair lengths and over 300 different color combinations. They also have very sweet natures, and have many of the characteristics of Siamese, though they don't quite talk as loudly. But they are very affectionate and loyal, very people-oriented.
10. THE SPHYNX
This extraordinary naked cat has a rather bizarre appearance. Strangely, they are available in a multitude of colors, albeit skin colors rather than fur! They are lively and athletic, and enjoy climbing. They are loyal, loving and constantly demand attention.
Feb 3, 2010
Top 10 Most Popular Dog Breeds for 2009
1. Labrador Retrievers
Easily the most popular dog breed of them all, Labrador Retrievers are friendly, lovable, smart and great with kids. They have continually been labelled as the most popular family dog according to breeder surveys.
2. Golden Retrievers
Right next to the Labrador Retrievers you'll find the Golden Retrievers which are also true American family dogs. These large dogs are extremely kind and gentle by nature and love playing with people and their toys. Just make sure you have enough space in your home as they can grow up to 90 pounds.
3. Yorkshire Terriers
Yorkshire Terriers, also referred to as "Yorkies" for short, are the smallest and mightiest terriers of them all. These tiny pooches are highly energetic and very protective and loyal to their family. This means that they don't always get along well with strangers and they are not afraid to speak up and let you know this!
4. German Shepherds
Among the most intelligent and most loyal dog breeds in the world is the German Shepherd. Because of their extreme intelligence and strength it's no wonder they are the dog of choice among the police force. This doesn't mean they won't make a great pet at home. On the contrary - they make great pets as long as you have room in your home for a large, lovable dog.
Ads by Google
Dog Water Fountain
Unique Drinkwell Water Fountains Same Day Shipping - Order Today!
www.Litterboy.comFind the Perfect Pooch
Which of 500 breeds fits you? Get a customized result in 2 min.
www.hunch.com
5. Beagles
The Beagle has been poplar in American households ever since Snoopy hit the big screen. Once raised as hunting dogs, this medium sized pooch is strong for its size. Just don't expect it to have an aggressive hunter attitude as this dog is kind and gentle and loves families.
6. Dachshunds
Dachshunds, also known as "wiener dogs' have also been a favorite among adults and children alike because of their cute, unique body shape. With a long body and short legs it may look like they can't run fast but don't let their appearance fool you. They love to run and play and can keep up with the ball. However, Dachshunds can also be quite protective animals and have been known to nip at strangers and other dogs.
7. Boxers
The American Kennel Club says that the Boxers play well with children, are extremely loyal and are low maintenance dogs. While they may not be the most intelligent dog in the bunch, they make up for it by being very energetic and fun-loving. Being headstrong, boxers require obedience training while they are young.
8. Poodles
Both standard and miniature size Poodles have long been popular both with the rich and famous and the not so rich. They are beautiful, loyal and extremely intelligent dogs which makes them popular among every socio-economic group.
9. Shih Tzu
New to the American Kennel Club's list, the adorable dog with the funny name has been growing in popularity over the last few years. Cut and cuddly, it's no wonder that the Shih Tzu is also popular in Hollywood making it into the homes of many famous celebrities. You don't have to be rich to own a Shih Tzu as they make great companions to the young and old.
10. Miniature Schnauzers
This miniature dog breed just made it onto the list new for 2008 but it's likely that we'll see them on the list again in the future. Miniature Schnauzers are smart, obedient and love to engage in non-aggressive play. They'll play well with children and or chew toys. Originally raised as farm dogs, miniature Schnauzers are energetic dogs that love to be around people. Similar to the miniature Schnauzer is the Schnoodle. Part Schnauzer, part Poodle, the Schnoodle is becoming ever more popular and makes a great pet.
Any one of these dogs will make great pets. Don't fret if your dog is not on the list as there are too many great breeds to make it into the top 10. You never know, they just might make the cut next year!
Remember that every great dog needs an even greater name. Check out:
Easily the most popular dog breed of them all, Labrador Retrievers are friendly, lovable, smart and great with kids. They have continually been labelled as the most popular family dog according to breeder surveys.
2. Golden Retrievers
Right next to the Labrador Retrievers you'll find the Golden Retrievers which are also true American family dogs. These large dogs are extremely kind and gentle by nature and love playing with people and their toys. Just make sure you have enough space in your home as they can grow up to 90 pounds.
3. Yorkshire Terriers
Yorkshire Terriers, also referred to as "Yorkies" for short, are the smallest and mightiest terriers of them all. These tiny pooches are highly energetic and very protective and loyal to their family. This means that they don't always get along well with strangers and they are not afraid to speak up and let you know this!
4. German Shepherds
Among the most intelligent and most loyal dog breeds in the world is the German Shepherd. Because of their extreme intelligence and strength it's no wonder they are the dog of choice among the police force. This doesn't mean they won't make a great pet at home. On the contrary - they make great pets as long as you have room in your home for a large, lovable dog.
Ads by Google
Dog Water Fountain
Unique Drinkwell Water Fountains Same Day Shipping - Order Today!
www.Litterboy.comFind the Perfect Pooch
Which of 500 breeds fits you? Get a customized result in 2 min.
www.hunch.com
5. Beagles
The Beagle has been poplar in American households ever since Snoopy hit the big screen. Once raised as hunting dogs, this medium sized pooch is strong for its size. Just don't expect it to have an aggressive hunter attitude as this dog is kind and gentle and loves families.
6. Dachshunds
Dachshunds, also known as "wiener dogs' have also been a favorite among adults and children alike because of their cute, unique body shape. With a long body and short legs it may look like they can't run fast but don't let their appearance fool you. They love to run and play and can keep up with the ball. However, Dachshunds can also be quite protective animals and have been known to nip at strangers and other dogs.
7. Boxers
The American Kennel Club says that the Boxers play well with children, are extremely loyal and are low maintenance dogs. While they may not be the most intelligent dog in the bunch, they make up for it by being very energetic and fun-loving. Being headstrong, boxers require obedience training while they are young.
8. Poodles
Both standard and miniature size Poodles have long been popular both with the rich and famous and the not so rich. They are beautiful, loyal and extremely intelligent dogs which makes them popular among every socio-economic group.
9. Shih Tzu
New to the American Kennel Club's list, the adorable dog with the funny name has been growing in popularity over the last few years. Cut and cuddly, it's no wonder that the Shih Tzu is also popular in Hollywood making it into the homes of many famous celebrities. You don't have to be rich to own a Shih Tzu as they make great companions to the young and old.
10. Miniature Schnauzers
This miniature dog breed just made it onto the list new for 2008 but it's likely that we'll see them on the list again in the future. Miniature Schnauzers are smart, obedient and love to engage in non-aggressive play. They'll play well with children and or chew toys. Originally raised as farm dogs, miniature Schnauzers are energetic dogs that love to be around people. Similar to the miniature Schnauzer is the Schnoodle. Part Schnauzer, part Poodle, the Schnoodle is becoming ever more popular and makes a great pet.
Any one of these dogs will make great pets. Don't fret if your dog is not on the list as there are too many great breeds to make it into the top 10. You never know, they just might make the cut next year!
Remember that every great dog needs an even greater name. Check out:
Feb 1, 2010
Top 10 Pet Poisons of 2009
Top 10 Pet Poisons of 2009
medication
With various dangers lurking in corners and cabinets, the home can be a minefield of poisons for our pets. In 2009, the ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) in Urbana, IL, handled more than 140,000 cases of pets exposed to toxic substances, many of which included everyday household products. Don’t leave it up to Fido or Fluffy to keep themselves safe. Below is a list of the top 10 pet poisons that affected our furry friends in 2009.
Human Medications
For several years, human medications have been number one on the ASPCA’s list of common hazards, and 2009 was no exception. Last year, the ASPCA managed 45,816 calls involving prescription and over-the-counter drugs such as painkillers, cold medications, antidepressants and dietary supplements. Pets often snatch pill vials from counters and nightstands or gobble up medications accidentally dropped on the floor, so it’s essential to keep meds tucked away in hard-to-reach cabinets.
Insecticides
In our effort to battle home invasions by unwelcome pests, we often unwittingly put our furry friends at risk. In 2009, our toxicologists fielded 29,020 calls related to insecticides. One of the most common incidents involved the misuse of flea and tick products—such as applying the wrong topical treatment to the wrong species. Thus, it’s always important to talk to your pet’s veterinarian before beginning any flea and tick control program.
People Food
People food like grapes, raisins, avocado and products containing xylitol, like gum, can seriously disable our furry friends, and accounted for more than 17,453 cases in 2009. One of the worst offenders—chocolate—contains large amounts of methylxanthines, which, if ingested in significant amounts, can cause vomiting, diarrhea, panting, excessive thirst, urination, hyperactivity, and in severe cases, abnormal heart rhythm, tremors and seizures.
Plants
Common houseplants were the subject of 7,858 calls to APCC in 2009. Varieties such as azalea, rhododendron, sago palm, lilies, kalanchoe and schefflera are often found in homes and can be harmful to pets. Lilies are especially toxic to cats, and can cause life-threatening kidney failure even in small amounts.
Veterinary Medications
Even though veterinary medications are intended for pets, they’re often misapplied or improperly dispensed by well-meaning pet parents. In 2009, the ASPCA managed 7,680 cases involving animal-related preparations such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, heartworm preventatives, de-wormers, antibiotics, vaccines and nutritional supplements.
Rodenticides
Last year, the ASPCA received 6,639 calls about pets who had accidentally ingested rat and mouse poisons. Many baits used to attract rodents contain inactive ingredients that are attractive to pets as well. Depending on the type of rodenticide, ingestion can lead to potentially life-threatening problems for pets including bleeding, seizures or kidney damage.
Household Cleaners
Everybody knows that household cleaning supplies can be toxic to adults and children, but few take precautions to protect their pets from common agents such as bleaches, detergents and disinfectants. Last year, the ASPCA received 4,143 calls related to household cleaners. These products, when inhaled by our furry friends, can cause serious gastrointestinal distress and irritation to the respiratory tract.
Heavy Metals
It’s not too much loud music that constitutes our next pet poison offender. Instead, it’s heavy metals such as lead, zinc and mercury, which accounted for 3,304 cases of pet poisonings in 2009. Lead is especially pernicious, and pets are exposed to it through many sources, including consumer products, paint chips, linoleum, and lead dust produced when surfaces in older homes are scraped or sanded.
Garden Products
It may keep your grass green, but certain types of fertilizer and garden products can cause problems for outdoor cats and dogs. Last year, the ASPCA fielded 2,329 calls related to fertilizer exposure, which can cause severe gastric upset and possibly gastrointestinal obstruction.
Chemical Hazards
In 2009, the ASPCA handled approximately 2,175 cases of pet exposure to chemical hazards. A category on the rise, chemical hazards—found in ethylene glycol antifreeze, paint thinner, drain cleaners and pool/spa chemicals—form a substantial danger to pets. Substances in this group can cause gastrointestinal upset, depression, respiratory difficulties and chemical burns.
Prevention is really key to avoiding accidental exposure, but if you suspect your pet has ingested something toxic, please contact your veterinarian or the Animal Poison Control Center’s 24-hour hot line at (888) 426-4435.
medication
With various dangers lurking in corners and cabinets, the home can be a minefield of poisons for our pets. In 2009, the ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) in Urbana, IL, handled more than 140,000 cases of pets exposed to toxic substances, many of which included everyday household products. Don’t leave it up to Fido or Fluffy to keep themselves safe. Below is a list of the top 10 pet poisons that affected our furry friends in 2009.
Human Medications
For several years, human medications have been number one on the ASPCA’s list of common hazards, and 2009 was no exception. Last year, the ASPCA managed 45,816 calls involving prescription and over-the-counter drugs such as painkillers, cold medications, antidepressants and dietary supplements. Pets often snatch pill vials from counters and nightstands or gobble up medications accidentally dropped on the floor, so it’s essential to keep meds tucked away in hard-to-reach cabinets.
Insecticides
In our effort to battle home invasions by unwelcome pests, we often unwittingly put our furry friends at risk. In 2009, our toxicologists fielded 29,020 calls related to insecticides. One of the most common incidents involved the misuse of flea and tick products—such as applying the wrong topical treatment to the wrong species. Thus, it’s always important to talk to your pet’s veterinarian before beginning any flea and tick control program.
People Food
People food like grapes, raisins, avocado and products containing xylitol, like gum, can seriously disable our furry friends, and accounted for more than 17,453 cases in 2009. One of the worst offenders—chocolate—contains large amounts of methylxanthines, which, if ingested in significant amounts, can cause vomiting, diarrhea, panting, excessive thirst, urination, hyperactivity, and in severe cases, abnormal heart rhythm, tremors and seizures.
Plants
Common houseplants were the subject of 7,858 calls to APCC in 2009. Varieties such as azalea, rhododendron, sago palm, lilies, kalanchoe and schefflera are often found in homes and can be harmful to pets. Lilies are especially toxic to cats, and can cause life-threatening kidney failure even in small amounts.
Veterinary Medications
Even though veterinary medications are intended for pets, they’re often misapplied or improperly dispensed by well-meaning pet parents. In 2009, the ASPCA managed 7,680 cases involving animal-related preparations such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, heartworm preventatives, de-wormers, antibiotics, vaccines and nutritional supplements.
Rodenticides
Last year, the ASPCA received 6,639 calls about pets who had accidentally ingested rat and mouse poisons. Many baits used to attract rodents contain inactive ingredients that are attractive to pets as well. Depending on the type of rodenticide, ingestion can lead to potentially life-threatening problems for pets including bleeding, seizures or kidney damage.
Household Cleaners
Everybody knows that household cleaning supplies can be toxic to adults and children, but few take precautions to protect their pets from common agents such as bleaches, detergents and disinfectants. Last year, the ASPCA received 4,143 calls related to household cleaners. These products, when inhaled by our furry friends, can cause serious gastrointestinal distress and irritation to the respiratory tract.
Heavy Metals
It’s not too much loud music that constitutes our next pet poison offender. Instead, it’s heavy metals such as lead, zinc and mercury, which accounted for 3,304 cases of pet poisonings in 2009. Lead is especially pernicious, and pets are exposed to it through many sources, including consumer products, paint chips, linoleum, and lead dust produced when surfaces in older homes are scraped or sanded.
Garden Products
It may keep your grass green, but certain types of fertilizer and garden products can cause problems for outdoor cats and dogs. Last year, the ASPCA fielded 2,329 calls related to fertilizer exposure, which can cause severe gastric upset and possibly gastrointestinal obstruction.
Chemical Hazards
In 2009, the ASPCA handled approximately 2,175 cases of pet exposure to chemical hazards. A category on the rise, chemical hazards—found in ethylene glycol antifreeze, paint thinner, drain cleaners and pool/spa chemicals—form a substantial danger to pets. Substances in this group can cause gastrointestinal upset, depression, respiratory difficulties and chemical burns.
Prevention is really key to avoiding accidental exposure, but if you suspect your pet has ingested something toxic, please contact your veterinarian or the Animal Poison Control Center’s 24-hour hot line at (888) 426-4435.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)