Adopting A Dog

There are lots of ways that people choose a new family dog. Some may search the newspaper for advertisements from breeders who are selling new puppies; others find breeders via listings on the internet, while still more may simply purchase a puppy from a local pet store. Perhaps the best method, however, in terms of being helpful to society in general is to adopt a dog from a local animal shelter.

Adopting a dog brings a new friend into your life. It also helps to reduce the number of unwanted and homeless dogs in your area. Unless the shelter is a “no kill” facility (and these are sadly few and far between), it will also save a dog’s life. Animal lovers everywhere champion the adoption of dogs from shelters as opposed to any other method of bringing home a new pet for this reason alone, but there are other reasons to choose the adoption option.

• Adopted pets have had their shots
• Shelters often have information about a dog’s temperament
• Adopting a pet frees space in the shelter for more dogs

When you adopt a dog you can be sure that the staff at the shelter has had the dog examined by a vet for diseases and parasites and that the dog has had its shots. This is not always true of dogs acquired by other means such as kids giving away “free puppies” from a box in front of the local grocery store or PetsMart.

The dogs at a shelter are not just strays and often are turned in to the shelter by former owners for various reasons. When this happens, the shelter collects as much information about the dog as possible, including whether its good with children, how much it barks, how playful or obedient it is, whether its housebroken, and other important details. While it’s true that this information is only as good as the honesty of the former owner, most of the time it is fairly accurate.

Animal shelters provide a valuable service to the community that they serve by keeping the streets as free of stray animals as possible. Because many of them do this with little or no public funding or governmental support, they are very limited in the number of dogs they can have in the shelter at any given time. The only way that they can bring in more stray animals is if they remove the ones they currently have. This is done through adoption or euthanasia. Obviously they would prefer to have the dogs adopted rather than killed. Adopting a dog could very well save its life and allows the shelter to bring in another dog in its place.

Foods that Can Cause Seizures in Dogs

Some believe that commercial dog food is at the heart of many different illness in canines, and I think it may have contributed to my dog's seizures and may have even caused them. Cory, my dog had seizures and they gradually lowered in occurrences once I ceased feeding him kibble and canned dog food; then, five years ago, they stopped completely and I never once put him on any anti- epileptic medications, that is why I have come to this conclusion. However, are you aware of the fact that certain foods can lead to seizures or cause your dog to be sick? Some of these caught me by surprise!

*Chocolate is an absolute no-no.

The majority of dog owner's know that chocolate is known to cause seizures and in some cases, even death, in dogs. My dog, Cory, ate some of my son's chocolate candy from Halloween. Before my son caught him, he had eaten a lot. Cory was very happy to have been eating chocolate as was evidenced by how hard his tail was wagging. Immediately, Jayson called poison control and followed their instructions to pour hydrogen peroxide down Cory's throat, which in turn, induced vomiting. I am very glad that I keep Hydrogen Peroxide in my first aid cabinet. My son performed this emergency procedure outdoors. We were very lucky that Jayson found out about it soon enough so that no harm was done. If ever you suspect your dog to have gotten into and eaten chocolate, don't hesitate to call your vet immediately. If you catch your dog in the act, then try the Hydrogen Peroxide treatment. Keep in mind that milk chocolate will do less harm to your dog than will dark chocolate.

* Foods that Have Onions or Onion Powder for Ingredients

Onions have disulfides and sulfoxides in them that can lead to the destruction of red blood cells, which makes dogs anemic.

* Raw Fish is off limits.

Particularly in Oregon and Washington, a lot of fish are contaminated with a fluke that is contaminated with a bacteria that is known to trigger seizures and possibly even death when eaten without it being cooked thoroughly. The danger is completely eliminated if you cook the fish first, although you have to be careful to get all the bones out of the cooked fish before allowing your dog to eat it. I've been told that freezing the fish at a certain temperature will also kill the fluke & eliminate the problem, but I'm not enough of a scientist to know what that temperature is or how long the fish would need to be frozen in order to be comfortable feeding raw fish to my dog.

* Nutmeg is another to avoid.

It never really crossed my mind to put nutmeg on Cory's food, not even at the holidays, but it has been shown to cause tremors, seizures, and yes, even death. No more sharing those cookies with your buddy unless you are sure that they don't contain nutmeg, I think you'll be just fine on this one.

* Mushrooms.

Some mushrooms contain toxins that can cause problems for a dog, especially wild ones. Because I have this knowledge, I know to keep Cory away from the mushrooms when we go on our walks. 'Leave it' is a great command to teach your dog early.

* Cat food.

Poor Cory, he loves to lick the plate clean after our kitty's done eating, and now that I found out about this one, he won't be able to anymore. Cat food is made with too many fats and too high a protein content for dogs to eat. OK, maybe he can still lick the kitty's plate, but don't substitute cat food as meal for your pup.

* Apple Seeds are specific no-no's.

Apple seeds and other pits from fruit contain the poison cyanide, which can cause seizures.

* Raisins and Grapes

About the time that I discovered this information, I was reading a training book for dogs that actually advocated using raisins as training treats, even though they can cause kidney failure in dogs. I contacted the author with my concerns and she was very defensive, saying that she had always used raisins as training treats for her dogs. My only advice is to do the research and be aware of the risks before giving your dogs raisins or grapes.

* Egg Whites alone are also dangerous.

feeding your dog the entire egg is not a problem, the issue comes with the splitting of the whites and the yolk, the whites of an egg contain a protein named avidin, and it actually depletes your dog's body of the essential B vitamins. The yoke seems to have an element that counteracts the avidin protein in the whites, so if an egg is eaten whole, the depletion of vitamin B is no longer an issue.

Sandra DeMers is the author of Cory's Story, the story of how one dog conquered canine epilepsy that will absolutely AMAZE you. Visit her website for a wealth of knowledge and resources for canine epilepsy.

Video Source: Youtube

Chihuahua Dog Breed History, Temperament, Grooming and Description

Unlike other breeds, the Chihuahua breed can vary in height, and are more measured by their weight. American and British standards state this breed should weigh no more than six pounds, but the British standards, recommends between two and four pounds. This breed can grow as tall as 15 inches, this being the exception rather than the rule. This breed has both long and short hair Chihuahuas. This is classed in the tiny toy dog size category. They have a well rounded head and a short pointed muzzle.

However, these have a soft spot on top of their skull, which has usually closed by adulthood. This breed has beautiful round eyes large in appearance and set well apart. With erect ears, that are large in look. Their tail curls over the back or to the side, this is long and is sickle shaped. The coat comes in both short coats; wavy or flat coat and long coat. All colours are acceptable in this breed. This includes splashed and solid. A few examples of colour are red, cream, blue, black, chocolate, and black and tan, and merle, though this is not recognised by all show standards. This dog can live up to 17 years but between 10 and 17 years is more likely.

History: The Chihuahua breed comes from South America and is native to Mexico; this is how it gets its name from the state of Chihuahua. This is the oldest breed of dog on the American continent. Here we see the smallest breed of dog in the world. This dog was thought to be sacred to the Pre- Columbian Indians. There is debate about the facts of these dogs history and could, in fact, go back to Malta in the Mediterranean, but this is seen through art work rather than a fact. There is also an idea that this dog came from China some 200 years ago. DNA suggests that it is of Old World origin, this form of analysis only checks on the mothers' side so the fathers' side is not clear or known. We know as a fact this dog has a long history in Mexico. With links to the Toltec breed, which are a slightly bigger dog and whose history goes back to 2nd century B.C.

Temperament: The Chihuahua dog is very territorial and can be very protective. With a temperament that can be easily provoked. This dog, though small in size needs good and strong leadership from the human, this dog is a pack dog and needs you to be the pack leader. This is often forgotten due to their small size and that is why a cloud of misinformation follows this breed. While they are protective and territorial this does not have to mean badly managed. Often it is us humans that change the rules, and we then get the bad behaviour. If this dog was bigger we would treat them as a dog and so have fewer problems. The answer is, they are a dog and need to be treated like a dog. The AKC describes this breed as "A graceful, alert, swift-moving little dog with saucy expression, compact with Terrier-like qualities of temperament". These dogs are not recommended for children as the child may be inclined to treat this dog as not a dog, and so get problems. This dog is loyal, and does not get along with all other dogs but likes the company of other Chihuahuas. This breed loves attention, and are eager to please. Do not allow this breed to get small dog syndrome, as this allows negative problems for your dog.

This breed can be hard to potty train but with firm and consistent rules the dog gets there in the end. Small, this breed maybe but walks are still needed, not just for the exercise but also offering mental stimulation daily. By walk, it is meant as a walk not a carry. This doesn't have to be a vast distances but variety allows interest for your dog.

Health issues: The Chihuahua can get a long list of problems due to their protruding eyes, and it is best to check this. Rheumatism and slipped stifle, colds and gum problems can accrue. In puppyhood care needs to be taken as they can get fractures. In some the skull does not close properly and this can cause problems. The breed also can suffer hypoglycaemia or low blood sugar, which is dangerous for the young puppy.

Living conditions: The Chihuahua is a good dog for apartment life. This dog loves warm weather and dislikes the cold. Just to note this is only a small dog physically, and while it is small it will still need space, even if in an apartment.

House Training Dogs Successfully

You could House train your dog easily if you had the time to watch your puppy 24 hours a day. But as you can’t watch them around the clock, don’t expect to train them all at once. Training can take up to about 6 months. Puppies are growing and developing quickly at this stage. They eat more food and burn up lots of energy and consequently need to ‘go’ more often.

The most important issue in house training dogs should be teaching him to control his bowel. When he is still a puppy, he has not yet developed bladder control.

House training dogs is hard when you are not home. Your puppy needs a lot of attention. You should first confine your puppy in a puppy-proof room with paper spread all over the floor. Put his water bowls and food right next to it. The papers you have set on the floor may be dragged and chewed around his little den, but its important and helpful in teaching your puppy where to eliminate his waste properly. There will be no reason for him to defecate elsewhere. Your puppy will ‘go’ on the paper, and you need to clean it up when you arrive home. This may be an additional job for you, but patience is all it takes. Don’t worry because later on, he will move past this stage.

Paper training is very useful and a proven technique in training dogs. In this way, no matter where the dog relieves himself, he will still eliminate on the paper because he has no choice. Little by little, you will see some changes. Gradually reduce the amount paper you have set on the ground. Start to move the paper outside the house. Of course, as your puppy has become used to using the paper he will look for it. Once the paper has been moved to outside the house, your training is near its end. Move the paper about an inch per day.

Occasionally, you may discover that he has had ‘accidents’ inside the house again. Don’t be discouraged. This happens. What you need to do is repeat the training. But understand that it will not be as hard as the first time. House training your dog is key for both your dog and your sanity and sanitation.

Mark pet lover Stimpson

Royal Canin diet feline Hypoallergenic: For Sensitive Cats

Food allergies are also common in felines. If you are a cat owner, you will worry about your cat reacting to foods. If you think your cat has allergies, this article about Royal Canin diet feline Hypoallergenic may help you. Food allergies are common i... Read >

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Hip dislocation is common in older dogs and can affect overall dog health. Hip dislocation basically stands for the separation of femoral head from pelvic acetabulum. The medical term for hip dislocation is called hip luxation. Hip dislocation is commo... Read >

Hills Science Plan Not Just Your Typical Dog Food Brand

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Arden Grange A Top Premium Dog Food

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The Truth About Fading Puppy Syndrome

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Relieve Aching Joints On Older Dogs With Hills Dog Food

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Dog Wee, how to stop it staining lawns.

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Which dog food should I buy for my puppy?

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Chihuahua Puppy Is Coming Home

You have purchased your Chihuahua puppy and now preparing to bring it home. You want your new family member to feel comfortable in its new home and you want your home to survive this new family member. How should you prepare?



First of all decide which part of your home will be off-limits. It will be better for your new Chihuahua to allow freer reign as he ages rather than to suddenly no longer allow him where he once could go.



Chihuahuas seem to like to perch on high places while surveying its surroundings. A Chihuahua can be severely injured jumping off high places. As a general rule if they can't jump up to a place by themselves, they shouldn't jump down from that place. You can make a ramp that leads to favorite lookouts or nesting spots.



You need to prepare for a new Chihuahua puppy just as you need to prepare for a new baby, with some changes of course. Furnish your home with Chihuahua "stuff" as the next step toward making your house his home. Some sources for supplies are large pet stores, dog shows, discount pet catalogs and the internet.



Toys



Fleece-type toys, balls, stuffed animalsÂ…..make sure no part of the toy including squeakers or plastic eyes can be pulled out or swallowed.



Chew bones



A chew bone is the equivalent of a teething ring for babies.



Food and water bowls



Avoid plastic, which can cause allergic reactions in some dogs. The best food dishes are stainless steel and for water, use a water bottle.



Food



Start with the same food the pup is currently eating. If you change his food, do this gradually.



Soft buckle collar



A cat collar may work better for Chihuahua puppies.



Lightweight leash



An adjustable show lead is good for puppies.



Grooming



Soft brush



Clothes



According to your climate, you may need sweaters, coats or fleece t-shirts. Purchase stylish lightweight shirts for warmer climates.



Accessories



Chihuahuas look nice in necklaces pearl or jewels with fancy charms. Experiment with different looks and have fun with the accessories you choose to compliment your Chihuahua's clothes.



Connie Limon owns Little Guys Dog Clothes Shop. Purchase designer dog clothes and accessories for your Chihuahua at: http://www.littleguysdogclothesshop.com



This article is FREE to publish with resource box.

What Causes Cushing's (Cushion's) Disease In Dogs

There are five main symptoms of Cushing's (Cushing's) disease in dogs, and two main causes of the disease in our canine friends. These five symptoms may include, but are not limited to, increased thirst and increased trips outside to urinate; increased eating habits; fast weight gain; a much thinner coat of hair, and; skin care troubles.

The two main causes of Cushing's disease are little tumors on the inside of the pituitary gland and tumors in the body sending mixed signals to the adrenal gland. Take a look at all of the symptoms and causes one at a time.

Increased Drinking And Urination

Watch your dogs drinking and urination habits. Has your dog been drinking a lot more than usual? Has he been going out more often to urinate? If so, this is one of the symptoms associated with the disease.

Increased Eating

Has your dog been eating more than they normally do? Does your dog still seem to be hungry after eating their usual size meal?

Rapid Weight Gain

Has Your Dog seemed to be gaining weight very rapidly? Has your dogs legs seemed to get skinny, and have less muscle than they usually do?

Loss Of Or Thinning Hair

Has your canine friend been loosing hair? Has your dog developed patches of missing hair on their body?

Skin Problems

Has your dog developed a lot of acne, and blackheads on their skin ?

Cushing's disease in dogs usually happens when the adrenal gland delivers too much of a body chemical called glucocorticoid. There are two conditions that can cause this to happen. The first condition is that there could be small tumors on the inside of the pituitary gland causing it to send the wrong signals to the adrenal grand, in turn causing it to produce to much glucocorticoid. The second reason is that there could be a tumor growing on the adrenal gland. This could cause it to grow bigger in size, causing it to produce more of the chemical.

Thanks to modern medicine both of these causes have treatments available. The pituitary gland is usually treatable with medications. These medications must be given to your dog daily. The adrenal gland is usually treatable with a surgery to remove the tumor from the gland. This will shrink the gland back to it's origional size.

There are also other things that can cause Cushing's disease symptoms in dogs, such as an allergy to their dog food. Some dog food companies use a lot of chemicals and dyes that can be very harmful to your dog. But always remember before you try to make any diagnoses, or come up with your own conclusions. You should always consult your local vet.


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To find more information about your dogs health condition. And to find out how some commercial dog foods could be harmful to your dog and shorten their life span without you even knowing, check out the information at Health Dog