Pets

Pets

A pet is an animal that a person keeps for enjoyment, companionship, for protecting his home and household animal or for economical, productive or financial reasons. Pets may be working animals, laboratory animals, livestock and sport animals. Most popular pets are noted for their playful or loyal characters and attractive appearances. Health problems can also be caused by a pet. Many countries, cities and towns have a limited number of animals that a person can keep. Many countries, cities and towns have banned some pets such as a Rottweiler.

Pet Health

A person also has to take care of his pet’s health to keep him in a good condition otherwise some pets get wild and will not be friendly with the owner. If a person wants to keep a pet he needs to fulfill certain requirements of the pet. An important problem is also if the dog is not fed the proper food this can cause medical problems like feeding the pet chocolates. A person should also not smoke near a pet as it can cause harmful substances to land on the fur of the pet and also harmful and poisonous gases being inhaled by the pet. Pet health is also very important as if the health is not good it can lead the dog to serious illness and even death.

Advantages and Disadvantages of keeping pets

Pets often give their owners an advantage like if a person takes his pet to a walk it will provide both the owner and pet with a good exercise, fresh air and social interactions. Keeping pets often relieves stress from a person. They often give a person something to take care of, exercise with and help to heal from a psychologically or physically troubled past. They help people to achieve health goals. Health problems are also caused by pets. For example, Asthma and many allergies have been caused by pets. Injuries and also death have been caused by pet attacks and bites. Tripping over pets has caused life threatening injuries and also broken bones.

Pet Food

Pets have a plants or meat of organisms as food found in stores and supermarkets which are needed to keep them healthy and fit. Different species of pets have different types of food like a cat has cat food and a dog has dog food.

Pet First Aid

Pets also need to be vaccinated which is important to keep them away from diseases and so it is safe to play or keep the pet. Without proper vaccination the dog can lead us to serious diseases like Rabies. A pet needs a vet to look after his health and to help him recover from a serious wound or injury. Sometimes vet give us a special food which is essential for the dog to recover.

Written by Ahmad Hussain

Making your home a Safe Haven for your Pet

Many people call their homes a “Safe Haven” and it should be, this is the place where you are comfortable, a place where you reside on a day to day basis. You want your lifestyle to be at ease and stress free for yourself, now it can be also for your pet. If you are a pet lover and you allow your pet to live in your home, you should protect it. Pets are not humans, but they are the human species and should be treated as such. Your home should be comfortable for your pet by maintaining cleanliness and also creating a special place for the pet to live.

Below are just some recommended tips that you can use;

· Make sure that your pet has the proper training for staying in the home.

· You should always love your home and keep it beautiful. Stylish decorators will help you with the designing of your home for your pet.

· Avoid any type of fabrics that can be easily torn.

· You can use covers for your furniture instead of upholstery.

· Using shades instead of blinds and curtains to avoid tearing.

· You should cover the electrical outlets a lot cats and dogs are curious to pick at unknown objects.

· Safeguard your latches on your window… a lot of dogs run to the window when they hear noise on the outside.

· Be sure that your items in your bathroom or not within reach. Keep your toilet seat down so that the pets won’t go mistake it for drinking water.

You can maintain a Safe Haven home for you and your pet by following the above mentioned tips. All pets like toys, you can find one that your pet enjoys to play with to keep him occupied and active.

Insects as Pets? Really?

The typical examples of pets are dogs, cats, gerbils, rabbits…the list goes on. However, some people are beginning to keep insects as house pets! Keeping an insect as a pet can require quite a bit of work and preparation, though. Bugs needs adequate air and space, correct temperatures, foods that are proper for the insect, surroundings that are similar to their natural environments, proper amounts of moisture and light, plenty of rocks, plants and other various shelter areas as well as varying foods and habitats. Overall, there are a lot of variables for keeping an insect.

When it comes to the container for plant eating insects, such as beetles, caterpillars and stick insects, a run-of-the-mill wooden or wire container with a net cover. Also, when purchasing an insect home, keep in mind of what size they will mature to and what their offspring will need for space.

For food and water, water should bae provided daily for most insects. The water can be kept in a small container filled with cotton wool or a sponge to prevent drowning. The food (twigs, etc) can also be used for climbing or shelter but that depends on the personality of your insect. Maintenance requires that the insects’ home stay clean and well stocked with food and water. Insects take time to look after.

Buying food for your pets

It is your duty to provide your pets with quality food to keep them healthy. Always read the labels before you buy. The wordings used on pet food labels are regulated by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). Follow these steps when in doubt:

Step 1

Understand what the labels mean. Chicken cat food means it should contain at least 95 percent chicken, whilst chicken dinner/feast/mix/formula means 25 percent chicken. Cat food with chicken means there is only about 3 percent of chicken in the can. Chicken flavour however means that it need not be chicken at all; it just needs to taste like chicken.

Step 2

Identify all ingredients and check their weight content for that can, the first one being that with the highest content.

Step 3

Avoid any foods made up of meat by-products (organs, bones, tendons and other left over parts). Buy foods which specify the meat used (chicken, beef, salmon, etc.) instead of simply stating meat.

Step 4

Look out for a label saying “animal feeding tests using AAFCO procedures have been conducted on the food”.

Step 5

Check the nutritional analyses of protein, fat, fibre and other contents while comparing the recommended daily percentages for your pet. Remember there are different nutritional requirements for puppies, pregnant pets, diabetic pets, kittens and even cats with hair balls.

Step 6

Always check the expiry dates.

Step 7

Change pet foods gradually by first mixing some of the new food with the old one. Do so over a course of three to five days before completely switching foods.

Step 8

Keep an eye on your pet after introducing new foods. If they show signs like a change in coat colour, loss of hair, scratching, changes in appetite, weight, mod, stools or any other signs suggesting problems, consult your veterinarian for advice.

“I love my Pet and I want to keep it healthy”

If you are a pet lover, you want to maintain their health, with routine check ups at the veterinary office. If your pet becomes sick, you should immediately take them to the pet doctor. All pets should have regular routine vaccinations, to maintain their health. Keep your pets in a nurturing and healthy environment. They should get the proper nutrition of food daily. Your pet should have a routine check up to maintain their health, and if there are any problems it should be reported to the pet doctor.

Things you should know;

· Your pet must be identified at all times with a collar and an ID tag.

· Maintain a pet schedule every month for your pet.

· Maintain your pets dental checkups as often as possible.

· Make sure your pet is receiving the proper nutritional supplements needed to keep him or her healthy.

· Every month your pet has to have a heartworm and parasite exam.

Instead of chocolates (which can be deadly to a pet), celebrate with a new chew toy or squeaky toy instead. Your pet will thank you.

Watch out for potential dangers from Valentine presents, such as foil wrappings from candy, ribbons from flowers or balloons, and stuffed animals which look like a squeaky toy but aren't made for pets.

Also watch that pets don't chew on flowers given as gifts. Besides injuries from thorns, some flowers and plants can be irritating or toxic if chewed or swallowed.

If you are traveling with your pet, be sure and stop for rest periods and allow your pet to get out and take a brisk walk, which will exercise his limbs.

Be sensitive your pets surroundings, loud noise can sometimes upset and scare your pet, like fireworks, or loud ambulance sirens.

It is vitally important that you take an active role in your pets life. You will be able to know the various signs of your pets behavior and medical needs. If there is a problem

Join the Responsible Pet Owner Month

February is the Responsible Pet Owner Month where pet owners are encouraged to get their pets sprayed and neutered. Do your part by following these simple steps:

Step 1
Set an appointment with the nearby veterinarian or pet clinic to have your pets sprayed or neutered. This not only controls the animal population, they are protected against many diseases such as cancer.

Step 2
Encourage others to do the same. A good idea would be to make a list of the nearby clinics or veterinarians and hand them out to your neighbours, friends or family members.

Step 3
Training your pet is extremely important. Behavioural problems is the predominant reason for dogs ending up in shelters.

Step 4
Ensure your pets are provided with a well-balanced diet. Take some time to explore the possible food choices which are nutritious for your pets. Nutrition plays a major role in boosting their immune system.

Step 5
Clean up after your pets. When walking your dogs or playing with them at public places, bring some bags to clean up after them. Besides being irresponsible, it is also against the law.

Step 6
Grooming is also important. Take an interest for regular trimmings for your dog’s coat, trimming the nails and oral hygiene. Some pets require grooming weekly; make sure you know how often yours demands.

Step 7
Exercise is very important for your pets. It helps keep them healthy and protects against various diseases. Help them stay vibrant and active at all times.

Step 8
Provide adequate shelter for your pets. Socialising makes them feel more welcome in the family. If possible, welcome them into the house and live with the family.

Step 9
Ensure that your pets have updated identification tags on their collars. Make sure that the collars are not loose. Check them regularly and keep the information up to date .

Vitamins And Natural Supplements For Your Pets

There are some vitamins and common natural supplements available to keep your animal fit and fine. Before giving these vitamins and natural supplements to your animal you must consult your veterinary doctor because metabolism in human and animals are different. Therefore, some vitamins can harm your pets’ health.

You must take your pet to your vet for regular check up and must bring to notice of your vet if your dog has any kind of illness. Vitamins and natural supplements are easily available nowadays but you must seek your vet’s advice before you give them to your pet. If you dog is undergoing on any medication for some illness you must ask vet’s prescription for vitamins and natural supplements as these medications can acts adversely when you give vitamins or natural supplements to you pet. There are number of sources like websites, magazines and other health articles for pet which recommends the vitamins or natural supplements that best suits your animal. It always good to take experts opinion as some vitamins and natural supplements cannot suit for some pets.

Vitamins and Natural supplements

Here are some vitamins and natural supplements for your pets against ailments and promote their health.

Glucosamine and Chondroitan: Glucosamine and chondroitan is best supplements for the pets suffering from arthritis and joint pain. These supplements help in rebuilding cartilage and thicken joint fluid that cushions and protects the joints. Most of the veterinarian prescribes these medicines as a treatment for arthritis and joint pain.

Milk Thistle: Milk thistle is best for the pets that have liver problems like hepatitis. Doctors recommend milk thistle for pets with liver problem as this protects liver cell from toxins.

Ginger: This is Chinese medicine good for stomach problems. Ginger has been used for centuries as medication for anti-inflammatory. This has been known best for animals with carsickness and other digestive problems such as diarrhea and gas.

Echinacea: Echinacea are best in improving the immune system and are best to fight against infections and diseases in your pet.

Slippery Elm: Slippery Elm is known as a cough suppressant. This is best supplements for improving digestive system. The pets who suffers from upset stomachs are given bark of tree as medication

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: The oils from cold-water fish are recommended and known best for pets. This helps as an aid in treatment of heart disease, cancer, allergies, arthritis and kidney disease.

Choline: Choline is a supplement helpful for those pets that have cognitive disorders and seizures.

Vitamins: Vitamins play an important role in the health and proper functioning of your pets’ body. Each vitamin plays its own role in proper functioning of different parts of your pets’ body. Vitamins such as Vitamin A provide healthy skin and coat. Vitamin B helps with metabolism and proper growth. Vitamin C is best vitamin used for hip dysphasia, arthritis and urinary tract problems. This helps combat the aging process and cancer. Vitamin D plays important role for bone development, and nerve and muscle functions of your pet. Vitamin E helps to relieve the discomfort of arthritis and cancer.

Vitamins and natural supplements are good for promoting your pets’ health. The dosage of these vitamins and natural supplements vary depending on its age, size, breed, and so on. You must consult your vet to determine the dosage and types of vitamins or supplements you are going to provide for your pet. It is recommended to close monitor your pet when you add a new vitamin or supplements to your pets’ diet. Your vet is the best person to recommend good vitamin or natural supplements for your pets. Nowadays there are insurance available for your pets and it helps if an unseen medical expense comes for treating your pet.

Massaging Your Pets

You should know the importance of massaging a pet in pet caring. Touching your pet and massaging it gently, is good for both the pet and yourself. It gives your pet and immense pleasure and you can hear the sounds or moans coming from their mouths because of this feeling. The Massaging also keeps your pet in a pink of health. Normally veterinarians prefer these types of treatments for your pets to keep them in good health, but you require no training to do it yourself, it is easy to learn and very safe to give your pet a good feel by touching its skin.

Massaging your pets also helps to decrease their heart rates gradually and helps them to relax. This hand on healing not only helps your pets to recover its health, but keeps yourself in good health by decreasing your blood pressure and stress levels. It also helps you to prevent yourself from colds, backaches and insomnia. The massaging helps to stimulate the release of endorphins and natural chemicals found in the body of your pets, which gradually relieves the pain and gives a good feeling to them. It also helps to stimulate lymphatic and circulatory systems which helps to remove lactic acids from their sore spots.

It is important to know the type of message to give to your pet in order to get good results from it. You need to know the right spot to massage for your pets and the required pressure to heal their pains. There are different types of strokes that you can give to your pets.

Effleurage

In this type, you can move your palm from the head of your pet down to its tail and feet, giving them long and slow strokes gently. It helps the flow of the blood in the body of your pet and helps them to relax gradually. You can start this massage with a soft touch and then gradually increasing the pressure, you can see that your pet is relaxing gradually and you can end it when your pet is asleep.

Fingertip massage

You can give a fingertip massage to your pets in sore areas like a sore hip or a painful area at the back. You can extend your fingers, join them together and can give a massage by rubbing its body gently in small circular patters. You should move the muscles of your pets firmly in circular patters. You can do this until you feel the pet has relaxed its muscles.

Petrissage

In this type of massage, you can grip the muscles just next to the bones by squeezing and rolling them gently. You should first know whether your pet is comfortable for this type of massage, if it resists at the start up, you can feel that it is uncomfortable and you can stop it immediately. But this technique helps in good flow of blood and removal of lactic acids from its body.

Trigger Points

In this technique, you can just press on the trigger points, which are actually the muscle spasms seen on your pets body. It helps to push blood out of these muscles and ejecting toxic metabolites, there by refilling with fresh oxygen. Touching a trigger points can make your pet jump and resist itself because these points are very sensitive to them and painful. You can use your thumb or your forefinger by slowly pressing down on the spot and holding the points for about five seconds.

You can use these techniques to keep your pet in good health, thereby decreasing the cost that you spend on vets and for your pets, health needs. Normally a ten-minute massage is enough for most of the pets.