Tuesday, January 30, 2007

Cats Can Behave: A Cat Behavior Training Crash Course by Anita Hampton

There is more to cats than the cuddly and lovable pets who purr on one corner of the house. At times, they can be a menace to housekeeping too. Scratches in furniture, broken ornaments, and ruined stockings are just a few things that misbehaving cats can do.
There are reasons why cats misbehave. And by knowing these reasons, cat owners can be capable of controlling their pets' actions.
Here are some things about cats which cause misbehaviors together with tips on how to make them behave.
- Cats misbehave when they are bored.
Cats that donít have much to do have no choice but to do obnoxious things. They may be looking for attention, or they just needed something to do to spend their energy.
Whatever the case may be, these can be solved by allotting time for your cat to play with you. However, do not do this immediately after your cat misbehaved. Your cat will associate its misbehavior with you giving it more attention.
- Cats are naturally nocturnal animals.
Cats are more active during nighttime. They can do more exciting activities by that time.
With this in mind, make your cat busy in the morning. By doing this, the cat will be too exhausted to do things when it is time for his owners to sleep.
-Cats misbehave when they are sexually-driven.
Expect misbehavior when cats feel that it is time to mate. Expect a lot of misbehavior for cats who are confined inside their homes when it happens!
Surgical procedures can be done to prevent misbehaviors caused by sexual urges. Female cats can undergo spaying; male cats can undergo neutering.
- Cats misinterpret owners' reaction to its misbehavior.
Owners usually get mad when their pets misbehave. But they are vague in telling their pets that they are mad. When owners reprimand their pets for misbehaving, cats think that their owners just want to play with them.
Owners must be clear with their reactions. If their pets misbehave, owners would make it clear that it is a punishment and not a game.
Remember that cats seek reward. They avoid punishment. Do not make misbehaving enjoyable to your cat by giving it a lot of attention when it happens.
By associating punishment for misbehaving cats learn what should not be done.
-Cats enjoy playing with certain things in the house.
There are things that cats love. It may be a curtain, or a pillow.
The good thing is they hate certain smells too. Spray unpleasant smells on those things to keep cats away.
By knowing why pets misbehave owners have more chances to correct these bad habits!
About the Author
Anita Hampton http://www.cat-health-tips.com

Breed, Not Produce: Tips on Responsible Cat Breeding by Anita Hampton

Cat breeding is not as easy as just letting cats mate. Breeding is not just about choosing cats to produce adorable kittens to earn money. To breed cats is not the same as to produce them. Breeding encompasses that stage.
Breeding cats involves scientific and systematic concepts. Producing cats involves only common sense. Breeding cats has an emotional aspect to it. Fulfillment does not come from mere moneymaking. Sacrifices have to be made to achieve the breeder's goal: to safeguard the welfare of the cats.
A lot of things must be taken into consideration before breeding cats. Here is a guide to help us better understand the dynamic process of cat breeding.
- A cat breeder's concern is the preservation or improvement of cat pedigree.
This is a serious matter. Selection of the parent cats is done on the basis of health, quality traits and reproducing capability. A breeder will never pair cats carelessly.
- A cat breeder is dedicated to learn more about cats.
A lot of things must be learned regarding cat breeding. Latest researches must be employed to properly select the cats to be bred. The welfare of the cats depends on how much the breeder knows.
- A cat breeder makes plans.
Breeding does not involve hasty actions.
- A cat breeder has to follow rules set by the government.
Breeders are obliged to register their cats to their respective breeds. Certain taxes are imposed to hobbyists and to businessmen alike.
- A cat breeder's primary motive is to take care of cats. Monetary motives come after this.
A cat's life is more important than money. And it is more rewarding to see the kittens grow. The money earned is just an additional reward.
- A cat breeder's responsibility to the cats does not end.
His care for his cats does not end when the kittens were sold.
- A cat breeder holds the future of the cat's offspring.
Whatever a cat breeder does affects the life of the kittens, thus extra care must be given by cat breeders when making decisions.
- A cat breeder knows when to stop breeding.
Breeding is not just about having many cats. It is about taking care of all of them.
After learning about these things, it can be concluded that breeding is an arduous task indeed. However, for those who are cat breeders at heart, all these hardships are worth the kittens they bred (not produced)!
About the Author
Anita Hampton http://www.cat-health-tips.com

Cat Training: Do It With Gentle Care by Anita Hampton

Cats are trained and encouraged by treats or rewards. A clear illustration of such behavior is when cats come running when it hears the food bag rustle or the can openerís sound. Cats often relate the sounds to food rewards.
Keep in mind that your cat must be closely examined on a regular basis by the veterinarian, to ensure that there are no unknown problems in your catís health that could be aggravated or intensified during training activities. To further encourage your cat to maintain a good behavior, the most effective way is to offer immediate treats, a full tasty meal, or a favorite toy as rewards.
When saying ìgoodî and offering a treat all together, your cat will later relate the word with its positive act, even if later, food is not available and upcoming. In place of food rewards, you can give your cat an enjoyable playtime or a rub behind its ears.
With the use of positive emphasis and reinforcement, your cat will be willing to learn good behaviors and basic instructions or commands.
Here are training guidelines:
1. It is best to begin training with kittens. They will be more open and responsive to training. Bad behaviors have not yet been formed and not given a chance to develop.
2. Use positive emphasis and reinforcement at all times. A gentle hug, caress, or a whisper has a longer lasting effect than harsh or bitter words.
3. Limit the training time. Make it brief but frequent. Cats normally have short attention and interest spans; so it is much more effective to have four to six sessions of five minutes each, during the course of the day than an hour or two of continuous training.
4. Confine the training to indoors. This is essential so that your cat will not be distracted by other neighboring pets or be attracted to climbing trees instead.
Discipline should be instilled for a well behaved cat, but tough punishment must be avoided. In training your cat so to avoid negative acts, you need to approach it positively. Cats generally will not respond to certain punishments like hitting or yelling. They usually correlate the undesirable act with you rather than with their bad behavior. The outcome will be that your pet either stops loving you or will be afraid of you; not the result that will lead to a loving and warm relationship with your wonderful pet cat!
About the Author
Anita Hampton http://www.cat-health-tips.com

Clicker Training Cats: Easy and Effective by Anita Hampton

Clicker training incorporates the use of a clicker as a reward or encouragement when training a cat.
Cats are able to relate with the clicker, displaying good actions and behavior. Clicker training is often linked with conventional condition, where cats associate sound with food and operational condition and where cats execute movements for food.
A clicker is found to be more effective than verbal command because cats can hear clicker sounds more clearly than a voice, as human voice tones change while the clicker sound is always steady or constant.
The click is brief and concise, whereas a voice, phrase or a word, is fairly long in cats' point of standing. To say ìgood boyî will take time than a click.
With the use of a clicker, cats can be successfully trained in three simple steps: obtaining the cats behavior, marking its behavior, and reinforcing its behavior.
Guidelines when training with a clicker:
1. To make a sound, push the clickerís spring end and then release. Treat the cat.
2. When you notice a behavior that you want your cat to continue on doing, click during while the behavior is being performed, never after it.
3. Click only once, to express enthusiasm towards the act of your cat and add more treats.
4. Note that practice periods should be short. More can be learned in three brief five minute sessions per day than hours of boring and stressful repetition.
5. Correct bad acts by ignoring and clicking when good behavior is displayed. Click when your kitten uses the litter box or when it plays on the scratch post, not on the furniture.
6. Click for accidental and voluntary actions nearing your objective. You should entice the cat into a position, but never pull or push it or hold it.
7. Never wait until your cat performs the perfect act that you told it to do, instead click and reward for little actions towards the correct direction. When your cat is signaled to sit and it crouches in its back, click.
8. Carry the clicker at all times when you are with your cat, so you can catch good acts.
9. Make sure to put aside the clicker when you are scolding your cat.
The non-confrontational character of a clicker makes it an ideal tool for training your cat. You too, can be happy with the results, having achieved all positive behaviors that you worked for with your cat. With lots of understanding, love, and patience, cat clicker training will continue to give you wonderful results that you and your cat will benefit from for years to come.
About the Author
Anita Hampton http://www.cat-health-tips.com

Pet Lovers: How to Crate-Train Your Cat by Anita Hampton

Taking care of a cat can both be a rewarding and frustrating experience.
The rewarding part is coming home to a cute, furry little creature whose antics can bring a smile to your face.
The frustrating part is trying to house-train and litter train them.
You can get over the frustrating part by starting them young.
Once you have a kitten that you plan to take home as a pet, you may start house-training them. Crate training is one of the most effective ways to do this.
Cats can be your best friend for life if you just care for them properly.
If you will train them at a young age, they will learn to follow "house rules" and not litter on your bed or scratch your furniture with their claws.
A cat needs proper care, time and attention. Here are some tips on how you can use crate-training work to your advantage:
1. Remember that crate training will take some time.
You need all the time and patience that you can muster as a cat owner to fully train a cat. This is why you have to start out while they are young.
Familiarize them with what they can and cannot do using the crate.
If you take your cat along with you when you travel and you are in a place where pets are not allowed to roam around freely, put them in a crate.
This would let your cat know that being outside is not that safe, so your pet will be content to stay inside the crate.
2. Select the perfect crate for your feline friend.
There are some materials that cats love to scratch with their claws. This would make the time that they spend in the crate more bearable despite being confined.
There are metal and plastic crates that your cat can fit into. Make sure that it can move freely when inside. Also, you can put your cat's favorite toy in the crate, like a ball of yarn or a small stuffed toy.
3. Crate-train your pet cat slowly, but surely.
Start by spending time with them while inside the crate. Then you can introduce your cat to eating food inside the crate. Do not worry if they do not respond positively the first time, as they will get used to it eventually.
Later on, they will learn to spend time in the crate when you are not at home or during the night.
The key here is to not let your cat feel frustrated inside the crate and spend enough time with them to make them feel loved and cared for.
About the Author
Anita Hampton http://www.cat-health-tips.com

Caring For Your Cat's Health by Anita Hampton

Just like humans, cats feel miserable when they are sick. As a pet owner, it is your primary responsibility to keep your feline friends healthy and happy.
With proper care and nutrition you will have a friend for life in the form of your pet cat.
Here are some tips on how you can properly care for your cat's health:
1. Feed them properly.
Every cat has a preference when it comes to food. There are several types of cat food available in the market. Try each one until you find out which variety your cat prefers.
However, you can still try to mix the variety of cat food you prepare so that your pet will have a nutritious and balanced diet.
Commercial cat foods have been well-researched so you do not need to worry about the nutritional value of what you are feeding your pet.
Also, supply your pet with a lot of clean water to drink. Having an ample supply of drinking water will lead to a healthier animal.
It does not matter if you serve dry, canned or moist cat food. Just make sure that you preserve the freshness of the food that they eat.
You would also want to opt for a healthy and natural cat food. Remember that it should be made of quality ingredients.
2. Remember that even domestic cats are natural hunters.
Mice can serve two purposes in your cat's life: prey and dinner. Hunting for mice would preserve their natural abilities to hunt and seek prey.
If you decide that you do not like the idea of your cat regularly "hunting" for dinner, make sure that you provide them with a proper diet. This will result to your cat ending up just chasing and running after their prey for satisfying their natural hunting urges.
3. Watch out for unusual behavior.
If your pet is exhibiting unusual behavior, then the cat might not be at its best condition.
Try to look out for the following symptoms:
- being lethargic or less active than usual - shedding of the fur or coat - it has waxy ears - looks poor and unhealthy
If you see these symptoms, you might want to change the food that you are serving your cat.
Better yet, consult a professional if you see your pet being less active than usual. Your pet might have a sickness or disease, and as a pet owner and cat lover, you would not want that to happen.
About the Author
Anita Hampton http://www.cat-health-tips.com

Cat Leashes: What They Are For and What You Need to Know by Anita Hampton

Cats are more known to be feisty little creatures that donít take too well to certain habits compared to its other household pet compatriot, the dog. Such habits for example are wearing a leash and being able to walk around tethered to it.
But leash wearing for cats is becoming more and more commonplace, especially with city dwellers, as it prevents the cat from wandering around and getting lost.
However, given the temperament of cats, the leashes to be used on them need to be both sturdy and as unobtrusive as possible. Below are some tips in choosing the right leash for your cat.
It is very likely that when you think of leash, next thing that comes to mind is a collar. However, a cat collar works differently than a dog collar. Cats have the uncanny ability to wiggle out of a lot of things, including collars. It is recommended that collars for cats should only be used as fashion accessories or identification tags.
If using a leash is your intention, go for a body harness design that wraps around your petís torso. This makes it harder for your cat to take off and the tension from the leash is removed from the catís neck, which will happen if you choose a collar.
Make sure that the material is durable but comfortable. Nylon is a good choice since it is both strong and pliable. This material is also machine-washable use the gentle cycle.
Next, the design of the harness should be able to wrap around the body, particularly around the stomach so it will cradle the weight around that area and off the neck and shoulders, which is very uncomfortable for your pet.
However, avoid designs that cover too much of your petís body. Although the material may be breathable, it may hamper ventilation making it more difficult for your pet to adjust to the idea of a leash quickly.
Another thing you should consider is the fit around the neck. A good fit is when you are able to comfortably slip two fingers in between the collar area and your catís neck. To make sure the leash will hold this particular area should be reinforced with additional stitching.
Investing time and energy for your peace of mind and your petís safety is always a good thing. And choosing the right harness and leash for your cat is a smart first step that will make wearing a leash a welcome experience for your pet.
About the Author
Anita Hampton http://www.cat-health-tips.com

Ideas on How to Train Your Cat to Use the Litter by Anita Hampton

Any cat owner will tell you, cats are wonderful pets to have around. However, that same owner can also tell you that one of the downsides is needing to deal with their petís toilet business.
But that should not be a drawn out problem if you take the time and proper care in training your cat to use the litter box.
Before any training should commence, make sure you have the right litter box. Choose one that is made of durable plastic for easy washing. It should also be deep enough to contain just a little less than 2 inches of litter.
Do not think that by putting more litter in the box will mean fewer times you would have to change it. Your cat will very likely refuse a soiled box even if thereís a lot of litter in it.
Cat litter comes in different varieties of grades and scents. However, the benefits of scented litter only applies to the pet owners. In fact, cats dislike scented litter because it seems unnatural to them. They will very likely reject eliminating in the box and go somewhere else.
The kind of litter grade your pet will prefer varies with each one, but it is observed that cats are particularly fond of smaller grades. Perhaps this is because smaller grains make the litter softer.
Next, place litter boxes in areas where your cat usually soils. You are building on the catís association of places and activities. Eventually, you may move the litter box around when your pet has gotten used to eliminating in the box.
Now that you have a good litter box set up, itís time to teach your pet to use it.
Cats usually do their business after a meal or a nap. So take note of these times. Before feeding take 10-15 minutes to play with your pet.
Allow about 15 minutes for the meal and clear up leftovers after that period. When the meal is finished, play with your cat for another 10-15 minutes, this time somewhere near the litter box.
Lead your cat to the box. Move the litter around with your hand to intrigue the cat with the texture of the litter, inviting it to step into it.
Encourage your pet once it steps inside, speaking to it in gentle tones. Make the cat feel that the box is a nice and comfortable place. Whether your cat soils in the box or not, be consistent with that tone. Eventually, your pet will like the litter box and do its business there.
Finally, be consistent and patient. Results may not come right away, but the training will pay off in time.
About the Author
Anita Hampton http://www.cat-health-tips.com

Training Cats in Litter Box Use by Anita Hampton

Cats are neat animals. They are also intelligent enough to be trained. Given those characteristics, it will be very easy for owners to teach their pets. Here are some tips to guide owners in training their cats to use litter boxes.
1. Cleanliness is a must for cats.
Sometimes, even if the cat is already trained in using litter boxes, the owner usually finds his pet urinating or defecating just a few inches away from the litter box. The cat wants to use the litter box, and this can be proven by the proximity of the waste to the litter box. However, because the litter box is dirty, the cat opted not to use it.
The point here is that cats prefer to expel body wastes on clean areas. So make it a point to regularly check if the litter box is always clean and ready for your cat's use. The cleanliness of the area where the litter box is situated must also be checked frequently.
2. Cats do need privacy.
Do not expect your cat to defecate or urinate in busy areas because they also have the need for privacy. That is why most cats prefer to do their thing behind furniture, or in corners of rooms.
To solve the problem, place litter boxes in areas where cats would be less likely to be disturbed.
3. Cats must be comfortable in using their litter boxes.
Comfort is an issue in training cats to use litter boxes. If cats don't find using litter boxes convenient on their part, why will they use it?
Check if your cat is comfortable using open or closed litter boxes.
4. Take it easy.
Most cat owners who train their pets for litter box use lack patience. Thus, after a short period of time, they give up, or they use force in training their cats. Both actions are wrong.
One must learn that patience is an important trait needed in training cats.
5. Cats seek rewards for a job well done.
If your cat uses the litter box, but did not feel that you appreciated its efforts, there is no reason for your cat to repeat using it again.
Make the task of using the litter box enjoyable and fulfilling for your pet by giving rewards. After a while, your cat will be accustomed to the habit.
6. More cats = more litter boxes.
Place more litter boxes to accommodate all your pets. Place them based on your cats' preference.
Generally, training cats to use litter boxes is an easy thing for an owner who knows his cat well.
About the Author
Anita Hampton http://www.cat-health-tips.com

Repel Cats Safely and Easily by Anita Hampton

Cats in general are loveable creatures. However, it is possible that some of them get on the bad side of the household. Thus, it is necessary to address the situation when the cats are the problem.
Stray cats are actually the problem. Cats that do not have owners to train them have made the whole neighborhood their home. They ruin the garden. They mess up the trash can. Thus, one should seek for solutions that will keep the cats away. Repel them.
At the same time, repelling cats should be done in the most ëhumaneí way possible. There are several options to consider in keeping those mean cats away, easily and safely.
Cat Powder Easy to apply to the garden, these cat powders appeal to the instincts of the cats. These contain the scent of a predator, usually a coyote. Cats recognize the territoriality of animals, thus having such scent in the house would keep them away.
One only has to sprinkle this in the desired area. The ones available in the market are usually not harmful to children and to the plants in the garden.
Sound Repellent This creates sounds that are extremely annoying to a cat but remains undetected to humans.
Cat Scatmats Some use the scatmats for the more stubborn ones. These are thin mats that can be situated on the floor, garden furniture or window sills. They are battery-charged. Any animal that would walk on it will receive an unpleasant shock. Cats are found to be sensitive to the mild shock, enough to discourage them from returning.
Water Sprayer The market offers this very helpful repellent. It is connected to the garden hose and has a sensor for movements. Any unwarranted movement of a stray cat will result to a blast of water to fright the cats.
Liquid Repellent It can be sprayed on any surface that cats may or constantly claw on. It has a terrible taste that would be noticed by the cat when it grooms itself. The cat will automatically avoid such locations.
Air Repellent Some repellents use a blast of air to keep cats away. Cats will find this scary. The tools come with a distinct sound that will be helpful in scaring cats away.
Odor neutralizer Cats often leave lingering scent trail on the garden that only attract more cats The odor neutralizer will use enzymes that will rid of the odor and bacteria. Just make sure that this is applied directly to the scent trail.
With these aids and tools at hand, the cat problem is resolved. These defenses are sure way to secure the household and get rid of the headache.
About the Author
Anita hampton http://www.cat-health-tips.com

Treat Your Dog To A Massage by Lyn Meyer

A massage is a great idea for a dog treat. When properly done it will help release any pent up stress or tension, resulting in a calm and more peaceful pet. Dogs show their emotions in their face and mouth a lot, and most restless dogs that are either tense, aggressive, or hyperactive have a tendency to bark and chew to relieve their tension. A therapeutic massage on their muzzle and gum line often helps animals with these behavior problems.
Apart from keeping your dog calm and happy, you should also find that giving your pet a massage will increase their flexibility and reduce any minor pain they may have.
One technique is to make little circles on the muzzle and jaw with your fingers. Gently move the skin in a clockwise direction forming a full circle, then move your hand over and make another circle right next to it. Take your time, and be gentle.
A massage will also help you bond more with your dog. Whether your dog is active or inactive, young or old, you can provide a gentle comforting touch. The best part of a massage is relaxation - an ideal treat for both you and your pet.
About the Author
Lyn owns Cat and Dog Treats which helps people learn about Cat Treats and Dog Treats

Don't be a dogfood sucker. by Lizzy Planson

Could it be that people don't know how to care for their dogs? Is it possible that people are not taking proper care of their dogs? Are people still using outmoded methods of training and harmful nutional advice? It is not only possible it is probable. I see it all the time. People still buy processed dog food, shock collars, choke chains and other abusive products, not because they're mean to their dogs but just because they don't know any better. Fortunately with the advent of the internet we can all do our own research and find out the right methods and products to use to make our dogs as healthy and happy as possible.
Commercial dog food is atrocious. It depleats your dogs enzymes on an ongoing basis, is made from animal wastes and byproducts, and can shorten your dog's lifespan by up to a decade. You'd be better off feeding your dog table scraps than the bagged garbage you find in the supermarket. Fortunately though there are places you can find reliable, valuable information on feeding your dog the appropriate things. It isn't hard to figure out. Just feed your dog like you would feed your children. All natural foods, maybe add some enzymes, and a little bit of the essential fatty acids, and there you go. It really is that simple. Many people will try to sell you their products saying that they are the only ones that have the right formula that will add decades to your dog's life (case in point: Dog Food Secrets) but it really isn't any harder than listening to your common sense. I personally noticed a great difference in my dog's vibrance and energy levels once I started feeding him how I would want to be fed. True table food isn't necessarily the best idea (though better than commercial dogfood) so a little bit more information is necessary. For that there are literally dozens of different books out there. You can sift through all of them if you want to, though I'll tell you right now they're all going to be pretty much the same. Just keep your eyes open for sensationalism and try to find a good book of simple recipes. The one I've been using for a while now is 245 DogFood Recipes. It's simple and to the point, no propaganda or guilt trips, and you can try it out for free to see if you like it. Your dog will thank you.
About the Author
Lizzy has been an animal health technician for 13 years and currently resides in Encino California.

How To Make Your House A Cat Friendly Home by Matt Ide

How to make your house a cat friendly home
Cats are a joy to have around the house. They spring and pounce on unsuspecting dust bunnies and sprint back and forth across the house. Their energy for living in the moment is an amazing quality and their ability to find the best places to sleep are uncanny. This article is going to provide a few tips on how to make your house a cat friendly home.
First, when bringing a kitty home for the first time it is a good idea to only allow them to view and explore part of the house. As they grow more comfortable with their new environment then allow them to explore a little more of the house. Just a little at a time. Cats are a somewhat nervous sort and little things can really disrupt their day. Give them time to acclimate themselves.
Second, make sure that your house only has cat safe plants anywhere your cat could get to them. It's pretty common for a cat to want to take a nibble of the fern in the corner; however some plants are notorious for giving cats upset stomachs or even creating a serious medical condition. Take the time to research what plants are safe for you fuzzy little friend.
Third, provide your cat with the proper cat scratching elements. They are going to want to stretch and scratch. By providing the proper areas for them to do this will keep them from scratching on the couch. Provide a few scratching posts around the house and make sure they are aware of them, by taking your cat to the scratching posts. It will not take long for the cat to get the idea.
Fourth, if you have a high traffic house, you might want to consider finding a place that your cat can call its own. Take a cardboard box and place it in a little nook and then put a small blanket in the bottom. Your cat will find this place and when the house is noisy and they need some comfortable, recognizable place to calm down, they will turn to this little cubby of their own.
These are just few ideas on how to make your house a cat friendly home. If you are interest in learning more about making your house the perfect home for you little kitty and would like to learn more about cat behaviors and why they do what they do follow the link provided at the bottom or visit, www.purs-and-paws.blogspot.com. http://knightwrit.a1s2d3.hop.clickbank.net/
About the Author
Matt Ide lives and writes in northern Michigan as a web content writer. If you would like for him to write for you, please email him at, Matt@knightwriterpublishing.com. In addition, if you would like to learn more about why cats do what they do, please visit, http://www.purs-and-paws.blogspot.com.

Pet Allergies by Mike Mathews

Many people are allergic to the family pet and research has shown that people are allergic to cats about twice as frequently as dogs. Getting rid of the beloved family pet is usually not an option. Therefore we have to learn how to live with our allergies by learning how to manage them. Most people think that allergies are caused by cat or dog hair but that is not really the problem. Allergic reactions are caused by proteins called allergens that come from oil glands in the skin and are shed as dander allergens. Allergens are also found in the saliva and urine of cats and dogs. Allergens are very pervasive and cling to clothes, furniture fabric and shoes. Cat allergens have been found in houses many months after the cat has departed and have also been found many houses of people that never owned a cat. Dander allergens are really dead skin cells that can be transferred to your pet's fur when they clean and lick themselves. A major problem for individuals predisposed to allergies occurs when they inhale airborne pet dander allergens. Allergic reactions result when minute particles of dander fool our immune systems into thinking that the dander is an invading antibody. Our immune system releases histamines to fight the "dander" antibody which results in the familiar sneezing, coughing, runny nose, itching eyes and difficult breathing. The first exposure to an allergen doesn't usually trigger symptoms and it takes multiple exposures over a period of weeks or months to produce full blown reactions. So how do we cope or manage the situation so that we can live with our cat or dog?
We can first find out if we are really allergic to the family pet, or something else like dust, pollen or mold, by visiting an allergist physician and getting tested for various allergens. If your allergic reactions are severe then the allergist may recommend allergy shots to desensitize your reaction to dander allergens. Next you can try and allergen proof your home by getting rid of your carpets and replacing your curtains with vertical blinds. Easily washed surfaces can eliminate a lot of dander allergens. If you have wall-to-wall carpeting then have it steam cleaned fairly often. If possible install air cleaners and air filters and vacuum often with a vacuum cleaner with a high allergen containment rating. Restrict your pet's access to your bed and bedroom and try to keep pets off the chairs and sofa that you regularly use. Try to minimize the dander allergens on your pets by washing them weekly with a special moisturizing allergy shampoo. Obviously, it is easier to do with a dog than a cat. Wash your hands frequently when playing with or grooming your pet. Try spraying your pet's coat with an anti-allergy spray that helps eliminate allergens. Try to groom your pet frequently as the combing and brushing will help stimulate a healthy skin. Try and do the grooming outside your house and if possible get someone else to do the grooming. If it isn't possible then wear rubber gloves and a mask to reduce your exposure to the dander. Finally, if you are getting a new cat or dog, you may want to try and get a breed that produces less dander. All pets produce some dander - even the so-called hypoallergenic pure-bred and hybrid designer breeds. Smaller pets produce less dander than larger pets. Light-colored and short haired cats seem to produce less dander. In dogs, many of the non-shedding or low-shedding breeds may also produce less dander. See the Dog Allergies section of www.dog-breed-facts.com/dog-allergies.html for a list of dog breeds that should produce less dander.
About the Author
Mike Mathews is an editor and regular contributor to the popular dog breed information site www.dog-breed-facts.com . He recently added a new section on Dog Allergies that shows allergy sufferers how to cope with their allergic reactions to dogs - which can be found at http://www.dog-breed-facts.com/dog-allergies.html

Poodle Hybrid Designer Dogs by Mike Mathews

Designer dogs are really hybrid or cross-breed dogs that have been developed to try and gain some positive characteristics or lose some negative characteristics from the founding pure-bred dog breeds. "Poo" hybrid dogs where the Poodle is crossed with a number of breeds such as the Labrador Retriever (Labradoodle), Golden Retriever (Goldendoodle), Maltese (Maltipoo) Cocker Spaniel (Cockapoo), Bichon Frise (Bich-poo), Yorkshire Terrier (Yorkipoo) and the Schnauzer (Schnoodle) are very popular. This is because the Poodle is a very intelligent breed with a non- or low-shedding odorless coat which is said to be hypoallergenic. While there is no guarantee as to what characteristics will be passed on to the first generation puppies from the breeding parents, the Poodles non-shedding coat seems to be a dominant characteristic which is often passed on to the first generation of puppies, accounting for the popularity of the "poo" hybrids. I guess if you wanted to ensure a hypoallergenic and non-shedding coat, then you should acquire a Maltipoo, Schnoodle or a Bich-poo where both parents have non-shedding coats. It should be noted that there are really two types of Labradoodles. The first is the unofficial mixed Poodle/Labrador designer breed described above and the second is the Australian Labradoodle which has resulted from an exhaustive Australian breeding program involving 6 different parent breeds: Poodle, Labrador Retriever; Irish Water Spaniel; Curly Coat Retriever; American Cocker Spaniel; and English Cocker Spaniel.
Most of the Poodle hybrids are quite attractive with beautiful coats. Colors range from whites and creams to apricot, brown, chocolate, silver, gray, black and multi-colored. Their coats are low to non-shedding and will need combing, brushing and clipping on a regular basis. Poodles are very intelligent and most "poo" hybrids should be fairly easy to train. Since there are three sizes of pure-bred Poodles (Toy, Miniature and Standard), you can have many different sizes of "poo" hybrids. Through the wonders of artificial insemination, the smaller Toy and Miniature Poodles can be bred with larger breeds such as the Labrador or the Golden Retriever to produce smaller designer dogs. While a Poodle could be either the dam or sire in most pairings, in this situation the Labrador or Golden Retriever would be the dam. One of the most popular designer dogs today is the Cockapoo which can take many forms. The Cockapoo Club of America recognizes two main types of Cockapoos - the American Cockapoo (Poodle/American Cocker Spaniel cross) and the English Cockapoo (Poodle/ English Cocker Spaniel cross). Four sizes of Cockapoo are designated. These are the: Teacup Toy (under 6 pounds grown weight); the Toy (7 - 12 pounds); Miniature (13 -18 pounds); and Maxi (over 19 pounds). Information on "poo" hybrids such as Cockapoos, Goldendoodles and Labradoodles can be found at www.dog-breed-facts.com .
Many designer dog breeders insist that the first generation hybrid puppies will be healthier and have fewer genetic health problems than the founding breeds. They say that this is due to a phenomenon called hybrid vigor. Some breeders will even breed a first generation "-poo" hybrid back to another Poodle to try and ensure a non-shedding coat. The resulting back-cross will be ¾ Poodle and ¼ other founding breed. Other experienced hybrid breeders tend to focus on producing a multi-generational line of hybrid puppies with standardized characteristics by breeding non-related hybrids with the desired characteristics. It is really up to you as to which type of designer dog hybrid - first generation, back-cross or multi-generation - that you purchase. However since the founding breeds are always pure-bred with potential genetic problems, purchasers should always ask to see the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) and the Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF) certificates for both parents. This combination of genetic testing and cross-breed vigor should help to ensure you acquire a healthy puppy.
About the Author
Mike Mathews is an editor and contributor for the popular dog breed facts information site and has developed articles on 3 "poo" hybrid designer dogs - the Labradoodle, the Goldendoodle and the Cockapoo - which can be found at http://www.dog-breed-facts.com/

Animals For Adoption - Helping You Find An Animal Companion by Linda E. Joy

There are a number of deprived animals for adoption that it is at times simply hard to believe that lots of people patronize the pet shops. On the other hand, we humans have done a terrible job caring for the animals that we claim to love. We allow so many unwanted new ones to be born and then just have them put to sleep when they become difficult to take care of. For those who are considering of getting a new animal companion, I personally would like to advise as strongly as possible that you must think of getting one of the animals for adoption to care for. At the end, you will still have the all the benefits of caring for a pet, as well as will be making an important difference in the life of an animal.
In fact there are as many animals for adoption as there are animals for sale, and perhaps even more. Back then, one of my first pet I ever had was a rabbit that was up for adoption. It was simply adorable - a cute brown lop=eared one from a neighbor down the street. He actually had two pet rabbits and, so, soon had a number of baby bunnies. A bit too many for them to handle. For sure, there is never any shortage of animal lovers for adoption especially if those animals are small, furry, and delightful.
Of course, the circumstances are much different in the case of adult animals that have been put up for adoption or critters who have had a hard go at it. The same applies to traditional pets, like cats and dogs, become much less popular once they grow up. Now this isn't due to the fact that people at times find adult animals for adoption to be less playful or cute than the babies. People are often faced with several difficulties adopting a full grown animal and hence people are not prepared to deal with. It isn't just that people find adult animals for adoption to be less cute and playful than the babies. Adopting a full grown animal poses many difficulties that people are simply not prepared to deal with. Generally they are already trained to a particular master, and can quite often have problems getting close to a new owner.
Furthermore, the problem is even worse if the animal for adoption has suffered abuse at the hands of its previous owners in the past. Just like human beings, dogs, cats as well as other animals can be emotionally scarred by being brought up by abusive people, and in contrast to human beings, animals stand a very small chance of completely recovering from this early abuse. Now if you choose to look after animals for adoption that have been either abused or beaten up; you will more than often have to anticipate all sorts of problems when raising them up. Some of them can be downright dangerous! Nonetheless, caring for a wounded animal can be a surely be a rewarding and a wonderful experience.
About the Author
Linda E. Joy provides readers with up-to-date commentaries, articles, and reviews for pets, pet care as well as other related information.

Animals For Adoption - Helping You Find An Animal Companion by Linda E. Joy

There are a number of deprived animals for adoption that it is at times simply hard to believe that lots of people patronize the pet shops. On the other hand, we humans have done a terrible job caring for the animals that we claim to love. We allow so many unwanted new ones to be born and then just have them put to sleep when they become difficult to take care of. For those who are considering of getting a new animal companion, I personally would like to advise as strongly as possible that you must think of getting one of the animals for adoption to care for. At the end, you will still have the all the benefits of caring for a pet, as well as will be making an important difference in the life of an animal.
In fact there are as many animals for adoption as there are animals for sale, and perhaps even more. Back then, one of my first pet I ever had was a rabbit that was up for adoption. It was simply adorable - a cute brown lop=eared one from a neighbor down the street. He actually had two pet rabbits and, so, soon had a number of baby bunnies. A bit too many for them to handle. For sure, there is never any shortage of animal lovers for adoption especially if those animals are small, furry, and delightful.
Of course, the circumstances are much different in the case of adult animals that have been put up for adoption or critters who have had a hard go at it. The same applies to traditional pets, like cats and dogs, become much less popular once they grow up. Now this isn't due to the fact that people at times find adult animals for adoption to be less playful or cute than the babies. People are often faced with several difficulties adopting a full grown animal and hence people are not prepared to deal with. It isn't just that people find adult animals for adoption to be less cute and playful than the babies. Adopting a full grown animal poses many difficulties that people are simply not prepared to deal with. Generally they are already trained to a particular master, and can quite often have problems getting close to a new owner.
Furthermore, the problem is even worse if the animal for adoption has suffered abuse at the hands of its previous owners in the past. Just like human beings, dogs, cats as well as other animals can be emotionally scarred by being brought up by abusive people, and in contrast to human beings, animals stand a very small chance of completely recovering from this early abuse. Now if you choose to look after animals for adoption that have been either abused or beaten up; you will more than often have to anticipate all sorts of problems when raising them up. Some of them can be downright dangerous! Nonetheless, caring for a wounded animal can be a surely be a rewarding and a wonderful experience.
About the Author
Linda E. Joy provides readers with up-to-date commentaries, articles, and reviews for pets, pet care as well as other related information.

Are You Ready to Buy Your First Horse by Michael Albert

You've loved horses ever since you were a kid and have always dreamed of owning one. You've spent the last three years taking horseback riding lessons. You know how to tack up, muck out, and have read just about every book out there on the care and feeding of horses. No one can doubt that you've put your time in. Horses are no fleeting fancy, but are a hobby that is here to stay!
So, are you ready to buy your first horse? Well, before you break out your checkbook you need to take stock of a few things in your life to determine whether horse ownership is right for you.
* Do you have the knowledge? How much time have you really spent around horses, and has it been hands-on? If you ride at a fancy stable that tacks and untacks your horse for you then guess what? You aren't having the full horse experience! Make sure you know what is really involved in caring for, feeding, and cleaning up after your horse. A great way to learn about all that is involved in horse ownership, without making a long-term commitment, is to lease a horse. Try leasing a horse for a year or two and then decide if horse ownership is really for you.
* Now that you know what is involved, do you have the desire? Horse ownership is a tremendous amount of work. Are you up for it? If you aren't, that's perfectly okay. If you really love riding horses but don't enjoy all the extra stuff that goes along with them, then why not just keep taking riding lessons? Ask yourself what you really love about horses. If you love things like mucking out, grooming, feeding, and taking care of horses, then you would probably make a great horse owner!
* Do you have the time for horse ownership? No more showing up at the barn, riding for an hour, and then heading home to your real life. When you are a horse owner, horses are your real life. If you travel frequently, can't or don't want to commit to a regular schedule, or have a very busy work or family life, then this might not be the right time in your life for horse ownership. Remember, horses must be fed, watered, and cared for according to schedule, and it's up to you to be able to maintain that schedule.
* Do you have the space for a horse? You either need good accommodations at home, or you need to find a place to board your horse. If you are keeping your horse at home, at the very least he needs two grassy acres, a run-in shed, and an adequate water supply. If you keep your horse at home you also need to know that he'll appreciate some company. It's best if you have room for an additional horse, a goat, or some other companionable animal.
Remember, owning a horse is hard work and can be extremely taxing on your time and resources. Before you embark on the exciting journey of horse ownership, make sure you are ready!
About the Author
Michael Albert is an expert by profession but he is also writing articles on horses, stallion, and trailors for a long time. He has done his research work in the same field within the organization of Horse Chit Chat.To know more about horse chit chat, horses for sale, horse forum, horse trailers, equine forum, hors

Choosing the Right Dog/Cat Bed by MaryMargaret Hyde

Choosing a bed for your companion dog or cat can be a challenge for there are so many points to consider and a great variety of beds available. Those who consider their pet as one of the family take great pains to choose just the right bed. Some folks have many beds scattered about the home so Fluffy or Fido can rest comfortably in any room of the house. Some aspects to consider when choosing a bed are the age and physical condition of the animal. A new puppy or kitten may have different requirements than an older or arthritic dog or cat. Some beds have aspecial padding required for large dogs to support achy aging bones and joints. Many dogs and cats like beds with 'bumpers' surrounding them giving them a sense of stability and the bed becomes a safe secure place where the pet can retreat in times of stress. The outer shell or cover should be a tough high quality fabric that can be easily cleaned or be removed for machine washing. For your pet's health the bedding must be kept clean to reduce allergens and the possibility of a flea infestation. Today pet beds have nearly unlimited colors and designs to fit your home's decor. Equally important is the filler or stuffing of the pet bed. Styrofoam beads are sometimes used. They can reduce odors and are very light weight. A young dog may enjoy this type of bed but an older dog that is not familiar with the shifting beads may not appreciate the instability it affects. (Another filler is cedar chips which are valued as a repellant for fleas and other pests. They can be purchased and added to other beds as you may choose.) Blocks of foam make comfortable beds if they are thick enough but they tend to break down over time and they often develop an unpleasant odor. A bed of 'egg crate' foam may be good for an older arthritic dog but it will not have a long servicable life. One of the most environmentally responsible fillers is made from recycled plastic bottles. It is super-soft and holds up to years of wear and tear. Recently a 'jel type' bed came on the market that is claimed to be preferred by many dogs. Cats may find a bed into which small packets of catnip can be tucked to be the "cat's meow." The more you are aware of the choices you have in pet beds, the more likely you will choose the best bed for your beloved pet.
About the Author
PawPrancer.com is a pet site offering unique USA made organic beds for pets with allergies, fresh frozen raw dog/cat foods and more.

Can't Adopt? Take a Dog for a Walk! by valentina bellicova

If you cast envious glances at people walking their dogs, and long for the companionship of man's best friend, but owning one of your own is not an option at this point, despair not. You can tousle the shaggy coat of a sheltie, scratch the ear of a shepherd or toss a stick for the lab to retrieve without actually owning one. Both you and the dog will enjoy yourselves, it won't cost you a penny and you will do a lot of good too! Of course the reality is that the sheltie will in all likelihood be a cross, the shepherd only vaguely identifiable as such only because it is the dominant breed of several present and the same may be said for the lab. Frisky, friendly, loving and eager to please, they spend most of their days behind barred doors in hopes that the next human to walk through the door will free them from the shackles of a crime they did not commit. Where is this place, you ask. How terrible! What can I do about it?
I refer of course to the SPCA and your local animal shelter which are not terrible at all. Thank goodness that such facilities exist, otherwise who knows what fate would await these animals who have outlived their usefulness and have been tossed out on the "redundant" dog scrap heap. Thank goodness that there is a temporary shelter for that lovable mutt - some good loving care, food, vet help, exercise - for perhaps a week or a tad longer and then hopefully a new home.
The shelters all over the country are filled to capacity and manpower is often stretched to the limit. Dogs need to socialize both amongst themselves and with humans and can fall into depression if this very important activity is curtailed. You can help. Pick a day, or two or more and decide that these will be your dog walking days. Or, if you have total time flexibility, call up your local animal shelter and ask them when your help would be most welcome.
Now you have a walking companion. Here are just some benefits:
- By taking on the chore of walking a dog or two, you will free up some valuable time for the employees of the center who can then devote more of their time and attention to other much needed activities.
- Dogs need exercise. So do people. Too many of us succumb to the lure of the couch and the numbing programs we find on TV. Is it any wonder then that we are becoming an overweight nation. Walking as little as just half an hour a day or at least an hour three times a week helps us keep those unwanted pounds away from us and the result is a healthier you.
- You'll develop new friends - granted most of them will answer to double syllable names like Plato, Snoopy, Darby and more. You'll be met with an enthusiastic welcome, smothered with slobbery kisses, hugged to bits with eagerness and gratefully thanked with heart melting glances. You'll get no backtalk and won't need to worry if you're dressed right or know the latest in hip talk.
- Research shows that dogs have a calming effect on us. Studies indicate that after being in the company of a dog for a half hour or more, tension and stress levels are significantly reduced in humans. Walking a dog takes your mind off a problem or more importantly, gives you the quiet time to think things through without pressure. - Fresh air ... enough said. Everyone knows that fresh air stimulates the brain and increases our mental capacity. - You'll learn and grow. You'll learn more about animals and when the time is right you will be better prepared to care for a pooch of your own. .
Here in my own back yard, there is a small group of very youthful senior citizens. They call themselves the K-nines. Three mornings a week they head off to the local SPCA and make a lot of dogs happy. Word is getting out in the community and others are either joining this group or starting their own. It all began with just one woman who loved dogs but lived in an apartment that did not allow pets. Oh yes, on each outing this motley crew walks 9 kilometers which is just a little over 5 miles. Are they having a good time? You bet! Are they getting fit? Yup! Are they helping their community? Absolutely! Can you do the same? Why not? Can't adopt? Walk!
About the Author
Valentina Bellicova is a world traveller, an author and a public speaker. An ardent student of life she observes that every human is bettered for have had a dog in their life. Visit her online dog emporium at http://www.sitbooboosit.com

All About Senegal Parrots by Low Jeremy

According to parrot experts, the Senegal parrot one of the best-known members of the entire Poicephalus family for having compact and cuddly physical traits and a very playful attitude. Frequently seen in pet shops around the United States and Europe, Senegal parrots originated from the north central part of Africa.
Unlike other parrot species, parrots posses an entirely different nature which are extremely playful, gentle and sweet in temperament that is perfect for its charming personality, cleverness, clear speech, and manageable behavior. They are also quieter but are good talkers if taught and trained properly. Since they possess much tamer nature, are known to be less demanding especially if they are given daily attention and interaction.
SENEGAL PARROT 101
Senegal parrots are the most commonly kept Poicephalus birds there are. Identified for being a green bird with a gray head, Senegal parrots are famous for sporting different colored under parts, either its belly or vest with a bright yellow iris.
Senegal parrots can be divided into three sub-species that can easily be characterized by the color of their bellies as well as by their following names that include Poicephalus senegalus senegalus hailing from Southern Mauritania, southern Mali to Guinea and from the Island of Los, these are known as the nominate race and has a yellow belly; Poicephalus senegalus versteri originates from the Ivory Coast and Ghana east to western Nigeria and has red belly; and Poicephalus senegalus mesotypus coming from Eastern and North- eastern Nigeria, northern Cameroon into south-western Chad and has an orange belly.
These parrots live in moist woodlands and on the edges of the grasslands. They primarily feed on seeds, fruits, and grains particularly the seed of locust beans and newly formed buds of a various trees.
A Senegal parrot's diet should consist of a good quality seed mixture of nuts, seeds, lean meat, biscuits, fruits, and vegetables--either raw or cooked. Vitamin and mineral supplements are also given to meet the nutritional need of the parrot.
Hand reared Senegal parrots are the most suitable pets because they are small enough to handle and can be placed in a medium sized parrot cage. These should be kept in cages or aviaries where they can eat and sleep. Preferably, Senegal parrots should be housed in relatively small cages manufactured for "small birds" and should be provided with lots of toys, T-stands and swings.
Senegal parrots are not as great talkers like the African Grey parrots but have the ability to learn a vocabulary depending on the owner's patience to teach. Senegals can be bought from $149 to $500.
About the Author
For more information on Pet Parrot & other useful information, please visit http://pet-parrot.articlekeep.com.This content is provided by Low Jeremy. It may be used only in its entirety with all links included.

Guide To Removing Mats And Tangles From Your Dog by Kelly Marshall

If you have a longhaired breed of dog you know the troubles that mats and tangles can cause. These balls of hair, if left knotted, can lead to ulcers on the skin, serious skin problems, as well as require a complete sheering of the coat to correct the problem. With a good grooming routine most mats and tangles will be stopped before they get problematic, but any dog can get matted or tangled hair after a day out in the woods or a swim in the lake.
There are several different ways to deal with mats and tangles that are relatively painless for your dog and fairly easy to do at home. The best ways to remove tangles are:
· Use a wide toothed comb or a pin brush to work from the outside of the tangle towards the dog's body. Work with very small amounts of hair rather than working on the whole knot or tangle at one time.
· Use a good quality detangler specially designed for dogs. There are many brands sold online or in pet stores that are safe and gentle for dog's hair and skin.
· Baby oil can also be used if you don't have a detangler solution available. Use only a very small amount and gently work through with the fingers. Do not use a circular motion as this may increase the amount of hair in the tangle rather than decrease it.
· Spraying a gentle coat of mink oil over the whole coat will prevent the coat from tangling up again after you have removed the knots.
· Often the mat is formed around a foreign object like a twig, burr or even a piece of a stick. Be careful not to catch this object with the comb as this will be very painful for the dog. If the object is very imbedded in the hair gently try to detangle it using your finger to keep as much hair intact as possible. Only as a last resort cut the patch hair, using the scissors so the blades are pointed away from the dog's body. Never cut into the dog as the possibility to damage the skin is simply too great, even with blunt ended scissors.
· Always check for mats in places such as the armpits of the dog on both the front and back legs, behind the legs, around the collar, behind the ears and on the "leggings" long hairs of the back legs.
· If the dog is becoming sensitive in one area allow the detangler to sit on the hair and move to another spot. Irritating the skin will only make the dog less cooperative.
Clean and well-conditioned, healthy hair is much easier to work with than dead or dry hair. A good grooming routine will help minimize tangles and mats and will keep your pet looking tiptop.
About the Author
For upscale dog gear that you won't find at Petco (like double bowl dog feeders or dog sofa beds), shop at Oh My Dog Supplies.

Varieties of Chihuahuas by Susan Ross

Varities of Chihuahuas Found and Talked About
Applehead, Appleheaded, Appledome, Apple-dome, Apple Chihuahuas
The term applehead Chihuahua refers to the shape of a baby Chihuahua's head. The dome of the skull is broader than the jaw, giving rise to the description "applehead". It takes into account that the top of the head has a slight depression. This depression is called a molera (Spanish for fontanel) and corresponds to the "soft spot" on a baby's head. Some Chis have it--some don't.
This is a "normal" Chihuahua. Applehead or Appledome refer to the 90 degree rise off the nose (muzzle) of the forehead. A Chihuahua will often have protruded eyes. These are features of a "standard" Chihuahua. A Chihuahua with a sloping forehead will often have eyes that are more recessed. Some people prefer this "look", but technically it is not a preferred genetic trait because it does not adhere to the standard as established by the AKC. As with all purebred dogs, a Chihuahua "quality" is measured against a standard... This "quality" refers to the quality of the genes, not the physical health on the Chihuahua. Oftentimes these unique characteristics make some Chihuahuas more or less expensive.
Deer head , Deer Chihuahuas
A deer chihuahua has a sloped forehead... not an "apple-dome", a 90 degree angle off the bridge of the nose... a deer chihuahua may also have deer-like slender, delicate paws... making them look like little deer. I've only seen it in smoothcoats, but I suppose there's no reason it couldn't occur in longcoats. Some folks prefer this look, although it does not represent the "Chihuahua Standard".
Teacup Chihuahuas
NOBODY HAS TEACUPS!!! They is no such thing!
"Teacup" is a marketing term... it is a cute name used to sway your dollars... that's it. Small sized Chihuahuas are actually called teacup Chihuahuas - but there is no such breed in reality. Many backyard breeders specifically breed these small sized Chihuahuas and name them as Teacup Chihuahuas - and sell them at premium prices. But it has been seen, because of their tiny size, these small sized Chihuahuas are even more fragile and suffer from various genetic problems.
Tricolor Chihuahuas
They are so called because of 3 colors present in their coat.
Long Coat Chihuahuas
As the name suggests, they have a long coat. Some people believe that these long-coated Chihuahuas are a bit more reserved than the smooth coat ones. They are also called Long Hair Chihuahuas.
Smooth Coat Chihuahuas
They have short hairs. They are also called Short Hair Chihuahuas.
This article has been written by Susan Ross, who works with The Chihuahua Trainers.
About the Author
The author has raised and trained Chihuahuas for several years now. She works for the website http://www.chihuahuatrainers.com where she shares her knowledge with all chihuahua owners.

The Perfect Puppy: How to Choose Your Dog by Its Behavior (Book Review) by Joy Cagil

To me, all puppies are perfect, but sometimes, a puppy may prove to be a square peg in a round hole only because he is in the wrong home environment. The suitability of a puppy changes according to the conditions of a home and the circumstances of the dog owner.
If I could have a wish list, a puppy or a kitten would head the list, but since we travel a lot and go away for long periods of time, it would be so wrong for me to get a pet. At this time in my life, therefore, I am not an appropriate owner for any puppy.
If I could get a puppy, however, I would research extensively even though I would probably adopt a mixed breed. For such a research, one of the books is "The Perfect Puppy: How to Choose Your Dog by Its Behavior" written by a team of experienced veterinarians Benjamin L. Hart and Lynette A. Hart.
In the first part of the book, general pointers are given such as: the best age for adoption is six to eight weeks, because the critical period of the puppy's adaptation period is three to twelve weeks; family composition; home size that is big yard or not; puppy's projected adult body size; and grooming requirements.
The second part of the book concentrates on the thirteen behavioral characteristics used in ranking breeds: excitability, general activity, snapping at children, excessive barking, playfulness, obedience training, watchdog barking, aggression toward other dogs, dominance over owner, territorial defense, demand for affection, destructiveness, ease of housebreaking. The book gives the readers pointers by defining each trait, and that may be very helpful for any novice dog owner.
The third part, as the authors claim, is the heart of the book. Here fifty-six different breeds from the American Kennel Club are profiled. Should anybody liken it to any unpopular profiling, the writers warn the readers in the beginning of the third part by saying: "Remember that there can be a great deal of variation among individual dogs within a breed and that these profiles are generalizations by authorities who presumably have seen many dogs from each breed." Each breed is given a page of explanation with a very helpful bar graph showing reactivity, aggression, trainability, investigation, plus the dogs drawing and physical description
"The Perfect Puppy: How to Choose Your Dog by Its Behavior" (ISBN: 0716718294) is easy to read in 182 pages, with contents and preface in the beginning, and references, general index, and breed index at the end.
The two authors of the book work and teach in the School of Veterinary Medicine at the University of California. Benjamin Hart, D.V.M., has just retired in 2006 as a veterinary professor for the School of Veterinary Medicine at UC Davis, while Lynette Hart is the director of the Human-Animal Program at the same institution. Both have written and taught extensively on veterinary medicine and animal behavior.
Although "The Perfect Puppy: How to Choose Your Dog by Its Behavior" can be supplemented with other more detailed material before choosing a puppy, it is a good, concise reference book for any prospective dog owner.
About the Author
This article has been submitted by Joy Cagil in affiliation with http://www.PetLovers.Com/ which is a site for Pets. Joy Cagil is an author in http://www.writing.com.

I Amamazed At How Much Dog Stuff We Have Accumulated Over The Years by John Mailer

My wife and I own two dogs. They are considered a part of the family and we try to include them in many of our activities. This means that we have accumulated a great deal of dog stuff through the years. It is amazing the amount of advertising there is that gets directed towards dog owners and pet owners in general. The marketers know that people love their pets and are willing to spend a great deal of money on them. It seems that each holiday season there is more and more dog stuff in the stores.
This past holiday season I could not believe my eyes when I was in the accessory section of a national department store. At first I thought there was a new section of doll clothing that was placed in this section. Upon closer examination I realized that the clothes were for dogs. Along with the clothes there were beds, toys, designer dishes and other dog stuff. This is a store that does not ordinarily have a pet section. I asked one of the sales clerks when this section of dog stuff had been added. She stated that it was part of their holiday campaign nation wide. It seems that people were requesting more items that they could purchase, not only for their dog, but for the dogs of their friends. I jokingly asked if this did not snub cat owners, but I was told that the cat merchandize was on the opposite side of the display I was looking at.
The dog stuff included very elaborate outfits for the holidays. Velvet dresses, satin off the shoulder cocktail dresses, and the more traditional knit sweaters. There were also collars that were studded with sequins and stones. I could tell that the sales clerk was not thrilled with this new merchandize. I commented that our female dog would certainly prefer precious stones. When I said this she lead me over to the fine jewelry counter and showed me a display of precious and semi precious collars. I could not believe what I was seeing.
I knew that there were specialty stores and catalogs that handled this kind of dog stuff, but I never thought that it would be featured in a national department store. The clerk mentioned that they had a large display of Halloween costumes in the fall along with special treats for the four legged trick or treater's.
I came home and told my wife about the display of dog stuff. She commented that we might be recipients of some of the items, because our family members and friends know that we pamper our dogs. I told her that if we did get something I hoped it would be the 14 carat gold collar with the pearl pendant.
About the Author
John Mailer has written many articles about dogs and puppies and how to train them. His main business is as an internet marketer Make Extra Money Online From Home Dog Training

Adoption A Golden Retriever by Daniel Millions

Those of you who want a Golden Retriever but aren't ready to go through the trials and tribulations of a puppy, should look into adopting an older Golden. Older Golden Retrievers are mature, and prove to be great in homes where they need to spend a quality amount of time by themselves. They are a very adjustable breed, being good tempered. No matter how old the Golden may be, he will quickly become a valued member of your family in little to no time at all.
Many times, breeders will have older dogs for sale. There are several reasons for this, which include show dogs that have lost their potential, studs that have been used for breeding, female Golden's that have been bred a few times then retired, or other types of special conditions where a breeder is helping a friend get rid of his Golden Retriever. There are other reasons as well, although whatever they may be - the adult Golden Retriever will be available for anyone who wants him.
Most older Golden Retrievers are already housebroken, and known a lot of behavior patterns and how to adapt to a new and loving family. Although it will be a little hard on your new dog at first, if you give him plenty of love, attention, and patience, he will be just fine. You need to keep reassuring your new Golden on a regular basis, and let him know that you are his new owner and that you love you and you are glad he is a member of your family.
If you have been thinking of adopting an older Golden Retriever, you should make sure that you learn everything you can about him. You should also determine his temperament, and whether or not it is compatible with your family. You should also learn important things as well, such as his diet, likes, dislikes, daily routine, and his habits. Before you decide to take him, you should always make sure that the members of your family meet him as well, so you can talk it over and decide whether or not everyone wants the dog to be a member of your family.
With an older dog, you need to take care of him for the first days, and let him know where everything in your home is. You will need to show him where he sleeps, where he should use the bathroom, and where his food is. Take your time and be patient with him, as will normally take him a few days to learn how things in your home work.
You should always give your new Golden Retriever at least a month or so to get used to his new environment, before you start his new obedience training. Even though your new dog may have some prior obedience training, you should still enroll him in a new class. This way, he can brush up on training and you can work with him to help him understand. Once you have finished training, he will understand your commands better and you and him will get along just fine.
All Golden Retrievers, regardless of their age, love attention. Older Golden's on the other hand, may have medical problems that you are not aware of. You should't let this stop you from getting one though, simply because the rewards that you will find are far greater than any cons that may come to mind. Although many people don't give a lot of thought to getting an older Golden Retriever - they are perfect for families who don't want to put up the time and troubles of raising a puppy.
About the Author
Web Directory Daniel Millions

Discover The Lhasa Apso Dog Breed by Lee Dobbins

The Lhasa Apso makes a wonderful pet, sometimes willful and some can be high-spirited but they are all loving and affectionate. Originating from Tibet, this is an ancient breed that was bred for over 2000 years by nobles and holy men and was considered a sacred animal and even used to guard the monasteries and temples. In the Western world, we can thank the Dalai Lama for this furry lapdog since he would often give them as gifts to foreign dignitaries who were visiting his country. The Lhasa Apso was first seen in Britain in the 1920s and made its way to the US by the 1930s.
Part of the American Kennel Club non sporting group, the Lhasa Apso was admitted to the AKC 1935 in the terrier group but then reassigned in 1959. By breed standards the dog weighs 13 and 15 pounds and stands 11 inches tall. Lhasa's can be rather long lived with some living past 18 years of age.
This breed is characterized by its long coat which drapes over its entire body and hangs onto the floor making the dog look almost like a walking mop! The coat is very straight and heavy and even covers the dogs face as it hangs over the eyes and produces a beard and mustache as well. The Lhasa Apso has dark eyes and feathered ears and tail which should be carried over the dogs back. Most often seen in white, this breed also comes in smoke, slate, gold, cream, black, honey and brown.
The Lhasa Apso is intelligent, lively, friendly and assertive. They can be very devoted and affectionate to their owners but may be suspicious of strangers. Some can be rather willful but others are eager to please their owners and will do whatever they say. They can be a bit high spirited and they have a loud bark which can be rather persistent.
The Lhasa Apso is a healthy breed in general but might suffer from skin problems if their coat is not cared for properly. Some may have hip dysplasia in addition to eye problems and kidney problems. Rarely, these dogs may suffer from a bleeding ulcer.
These little dogs are very active indoors but can do well in an apartment as long as they walked regularly and given a chance to play and run. This is not a dog that needs a lot of exercise but every dog does need a walk at least once a day.
Due to the long coat, this breed does need grooming care and will have to have the coat trimmed and stripped. If they are not brush everyday the coat will become quite matted and unruly. The feet can also get matted easily and should be checked daily. This breed can be dry shampooed when necessary and their eyes and ears should be cleaned often. Despite the long code this breed is only an average shedder.
About the Author
Lee Dobbins writes for Dog Breeds 123 where you can learn more about your favorite breeds and see a picture of the loveable Lhasa Apso.

What Kind Of Pet Should You Get For Your Child? by Hal Storm

If you have kids, you should seriously consider getting them pets. That being said, which ones should you choose?
So you've finally broken down and decided to get your kids a pet! Before you welcome Rover or Spot into your house, you need to decide what pet is best for your children. Not all pets are created equal and in fact, many animals which are commonly bought for children do not make good pets at all. Here is a look at some of the better pets for kids.
Dogs can be playful and affectionate. They come in all sizes so you should be able to find one that fits your space limitations. Dogs can be quite different in temperament and you need to research the different breeds before selecting your pet. Labrador Retrievers are the most popular dog in America. They are great with children and are easily trained. Golden Retrievers are very devoted dogs. They are good for people of all ages and are great if your family likes to hunt. German Shepherds are wonderful family dogs. They adore children and love to be active. Beagles are smart and gentle dogs. You will need to give them a lot of exercise though. Any of these dogs make a great choice for kids. Cats are also a good choice, although you will want to spend a little time with the cat to see how it reacts to children.
Want something smaller? Forget about the hamster or gerbil. A rat makes a much better pet because they love to be held. If rats are not your thing, try a guinea pig. They are one of the top pets for kids. They are easy to take care of and they love to be picked up. They will let your children hold them and they even purr! You will rarely have problems with them scratching or biting.
You will often see iguanas or turtles in pet stores and often someone will try to convince you that they make good pets for kids. The reality is that they are not good pets for kids at all. Iguanas can grow quite large and become aggressive as they get older. Turtles are hard to take care of and they are pretty boring for kids. The better choice is a leopard gecko. They like to be held and they are not hard to look after.
There are many other pets that are good for children as well. The thing to keep in mind is that you want to find the pet that fits your particular children. You will want to consider their personalities and what they hope to gain from pet ownership. Some kids will be happy just looking at a goldfish while others want a pony. You will just have to figure out what works for your family.
About the Author
Hal Storm is with PetStoreYeti.com - your free resource for local pet stores, services and pet information.

Should You Go With An Exotic Pet? by Hal Storm

Once you commit to the idea of getting a pet, it is easy to be tempted with exotic pets. What seems like a great idea at first, however, may not be one in the long run if you are not prepared.
While many people think dogs and cats make great pets, there are plenty of other people who would prefer a more unusual pet. There are many exotic pets who can be great additions to your household so long as you know what you are getting into.
When deciding what type of exotic pet to purchase, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First, you need to become educated about the pet you are considering. You should never take responsibility for any type of pet on an impulse, and this is especially true with exotic pets. You need to know what you are getting into as some exotic pets can require elaborate setups as well as a large time commitment.
Exotic pets sometimes have unusual feeding habits. You need to make sure that you know what type of food they eat and how easy it is for you to find it. You also need to find out what type of housing is appropriate for the animal. What things do you need to add to their cage or aquarium to make life pleasant for your new pet? Do they require any special equipment like a UV light? You also should check to see if there is a veterinarian who will be able to provide health care for your pet. Many exotic pets can live for a very long time. You need to take into consideration its lifespan and the long term commitment you will be making if you bring it home.
You also need to consider what type of interaction you want between you and your pet. Are you content with a pet who does not like to be handled? Do you have children who might become injured if they try to pick up your exotic pet? Can your new pet get along with any existing ones in your home? Some exotic pets can potentially carry diseases or illnesses which could harm people in your home, especially the elderly or children. Also, there are many species which are illegal to keep as pets. Make sure you know your local laws before taking one home! A friend of mine had a baby hippo and ended up going to jail. I kid you not!
Although these are all things you need to consider, it does not all mean that you shouldn't buy an exotic pet. They might be an excellent choice for your particular situation. There are many exotic pets sale which are easy to care for and which love to be handled.
About the Author
Hal Storm is with PetStoreYeti.com - your free resource for exotic pet stores, services and pet information.

At What Age Should You Give Your Child a Pet? by Hal Storm

If you have kids, you might be up in the air on getting a kitten, dog or something else. You probably should, but the question is when?
Kids dream of having their own pet. As parents, you might be confused as to whether getting a pet is a good idea or not. There is no right or wrong answer, however. A lot depends on your personal situation and the maturity level of your children.
If your children are not yet in school, they should not have responsibility over a pet. It is certainly fine for you to have a family pet, but you will need to be prepared to do most of the work yourself. Children at this age often do not know that they are bothering an animal and they simply think the animal is playing with them. You need to make sure that your pet will get along well with small children. Even gentle dogs and cats can become agitated when their tails are pulled or if a child is harassing them. If you have a bird, you will need to make sure that you are able to keep the cage out of the reach of children. Little kids love to stick their fingers into a bird cage and a bird loves to nip them.
If your children are in school, they are probably ready for a pet. However, you will need to have a serious discussion as to whether your child will be responsible for all of the pet care or whether it will be shared between family members. A child often will agree to take care of a pet. When the time comes to actually do it, they might be less inclined. If your child generally does a good job at taking care of his or her belongings, then they might be ready to take on the additional responsibility of a pet. However, you must supervise this care as you are ultimately the one responsible for the pet's care.
You should also never buy a pet on a whim. You will often see rabbits at a carnival or a box of free puppies on the side of the road. You might wander into a pet store at the mall and see a cute cat that you want to make your own. Avoid the temptation. Many animals which are bought on impulse end up in shelters. Do your research before you make a commitment to a pet.
If you have prepared for a pet and know what you are getting into, they can be a great experience for a child. Adults also often name the times they spent with their pet as some of their favorite childhood memories. There can be quite a few benefits to pet ownership. Many people feel that it helps children gain responsibility. It can also teach them how to be kind to animals and can have a therapeutic effect on many children. Some doctors also believe that having a pet as a child will help reduce your susceptibility to allergies when you are older.
About the Author
Hal Storm is with PetStoreYeti.com - your free resource for pet information.

Removing Pet Accidents From Your Floor by Hal Storm

If you decide to add a pet to your home, you are inevitably going to have to deal with an "accident." Here is some practical advice on applying CPR to your flooring.
Dogs and cats can be wonderful companions, but the first time your sock lands in a wet spot on the carpet, you may doubt your decision to bring Fluffy into your home. Even the best housebroken animals can sometimes have accidents. Pet urine, particularly that of cats, can be quite difficult to get off your carpet and furniture. Here are some tips you can try.
If a dog or cat urinates on your carpet, you should assume that the urine has seeped down to the carpet pad unless you were able to catch the animal in the act and clean it up right away. It is important that you treat both the carpet and the pad underneath or you will never get rid of the smell. In order to make sure you get all the urine up, first place a towel over the spot and put a weight on top. Let that sit for about fifteen minutes. Take up the towel and pour a little bit of water on the spot. Place a fresh towel on the spot and set the weight on top. Let this sit for about half an hour. Finally, use white vinegar and water on the spot and place a fresh towel and the weight back on top. Let that sit until the morning. This process should pull up the urine from the carpet and the carpet pad.
The important thing to remember about your pet's accident is that you need to get all of the smell out. Not only is it more sanitary, but if your pet can smell the urine, they will continue to mark in the same spot over and over again. You can use several different products to break down the urine smell. There are several commercial products that you could try such as Nature's Miracle, Pet Stop, No-Go or Febreeze. Shampooing your carpets frequently is a good idea as well. Many carpet cleaners have a brand of shampoo that is made especially for pet odors.
There are several home remedies as well. Pour baking soda on the spot to absorb much of the urine and the associated odor. Let it sit for about twenty-four hours and then vacuum up. You can try using scoopable kitty litter as well. Listerine in a spray bottle works often works for cat odors. Vinegar and water is also a good, inexpensive choice. You can also try Windex or rubbing alcohol. Remember to test any product on a hidden area of your carpet to make sure that it won't damage your carpet in any way.
When all else fails, call in a professional carpet cleaner. Their machines can usually draw up dirt and odors better than the home machines. The important thing to remember is to clean up spots thoroughly and as quickly as possible so your pet does not try to mark their territory over and over again and compound your problem.
About the Author
Hal Storm is with PetStoreYeti.com - your free resource for pet related services.

How to Choose a Parrot by Marty Rubenski

I am often asked which type of parrots make the best pets.
Unfortunately, there's no easy answer to this question. It's a bit like asking what movie you should see of what type of car you would like.
You really need to start out by asking what sort of parrot owner would you make? Some species of parrot can live 70 years or more. That's a lifetime commitment unless you buy an older bird. Birds of the parrot family are social animals. They need company to thrive. Can you spend some time with a parrot two or three times a day?
The choice often made with children in mind is the budgerigar. These have many of the characteristics of the larger parrots, such as an engaging personality and training but it's very hard to find a budgie will or able to talk.
Cockatiels are another good choice for those on a budget. Although some cockatiels will talk they are less likely to do so than some other species.
Amazon parrots parrots can also make good pets often living about 20 years or more. The diet for an Amazon needs to be more varied and should include plenty of vegetables. Not quite as talkative as the African Grey, these parrots can still develop a good vocabulary.
Blue and Gold Macaws, or most other Macaws are also worth considering. They have beautiful plumage and, usually, a mellow personality.
The African Greys are intelligent and will quickly pick up a large vocabulary. These are long-lived birds, often reaching 60 years or more. These are very popular parrots because of their remarkable mimicry skills and intelligence. Although each individual can vary, it is common for them to have vocabularies of several hundred words. They will often sound exactly like their owner when speaking which is an unnerving experience.
Take plenty of time to make the decision and talk to several other parrot owners about their experiences with a particular species. You may also want to see if there is a local parrot rescue society close to you. They will give you advice orn the needs of a particular species and you even have a suitable parrot for you to adopt at much lower cost than buying a young bird.
For more advice on choosing, taming and training parrots visit http://training-parrots.blogspot.com
About the Author
Marty writes on a wide range of topics for numerous online publications.

Jackie by binita shah

Jackie is my delightful kitten, who is black and white in colour and extremely playful. Her favourit toy is a bunny rabbit soft toy, which she is convinced is her child. She is a nocturnal cat, she sleeps all day and wants to play late at night when we are all getting ready for bed!!please vote for her as she has been entered in the petmillions competition and every vote contributes to charity. Thank you for your help. The link for jackies entry is
http://www.petmillions.com/?vote=3282

Acrylic Fish Tanks: What You Should Ask Before Purchasing One by Michael Singer

Are you interested in purchasing an acrylic fish tank? If so, you are defiantly not alone. Over the past few years, the popularity of acrylic fish tanks has, literally, skyrocketed in popularity. One of the many reasons for that popularity is strength. Acrylic aquariums are known as being stronger than traditional glass fish tanks. In addition to being stronger, acrylic fish tanks are clearer and lighter. These reasons are just a few of the many reasons why acrylic fish tanks come highly rated and recommended by fish keepers.
As previously mentioned, acrylic fish tanks have increased in popularity. Despite being light, strong, and clear, not all acrylic fish tanks are created equal. That is why it is important that you know exactly what you are about to purchase. Unfortunately, with acrylic fish tanks, knowing what you are about to purchase may require a little bit of research. However, there is an easier option. If you are doing business with a well informed and well established fish tank supplier or manufacturer, the individual or company who you are interested in doing business with should be able to answer all of your questions. Those questions, a few of which are outlined below, are important when choosing the perfect acrylic fish tank for your home or office.
Perhaps, one of the most important questions to ask, if and when you are interested in purchasing an acrylic fish tank, is the type of acrylic that is used. While it is important to note that most well-known, established, and reputable fish tank manufacturers will make their acrylic aquariums with top of the line acrylic materials, there are others who do not. If you are interested in doing business with a relatively unheard of fish tank manufacturer, it may be best to inquire about the type of acrylic used. Although many individuals believe that acrylic is acrylic, you don't want to find out the truth after you have already made your purchase. It has been noted that cast cell acrylic is the best type of acrylic to use on fish tanks.
If you are planning on purchasing an acrylic acquarium from a fish tank dealer, it is important that you inquire about the fish tank manufacturer used the by dealer. If you are interested in purchasing a fairly large sized acrylic fish tank or a custom built fish tank, you will find that you are making a fairly large purchase. In fact, that large purchase can even be considered an investment. When making an investment, it is important that you know exactly what you are purchasing and who it was made by. Familiarizing yourself with this important piece of information may not only make choosing an acrylic fish tank easier, but it will also help to prevent you from wasting your money on a poor quality product.
It is also important that you ask about a warranty and if one exists. As stated above, acrylic fish tanks come so highly rated and recommended because they are stronger than all other types of aquariums. That is why, if you are interested in purchasing an acrylic aquarium, that aquarium should come with a warranty. In fact, that warranty should even be a lifetime warranty. In addition, you should ask about the manufacturer's reputation for customer service and how long they have been in business. A quality, well produced acrylic fish tank should last a lifetime and that is why you should be presented with a lifetime warranty from a long established manufacturer. If not, you are advised against making the purchase. Remember, there are only a few acrylic fish tank manufacturers that offer lifetime warranties on their products and have a long-term quality reputation.
The above mentioned acrylic aquarium questions are just a few of the many that you should be prepared to ask. In fact, before contacting an acrylic fish tank manufacturer or supplier for more information, you may want to think about developing a list of questions to ask. Brainstorming ahead of the time is the best way to ensure that you are fully prepared to purchase the acrylic acquarium of your dreams.
About the Author
Looking for a custom acrylic aquarium that fits your budget? Our custom fish tanks are manufactured in the U.S. with quality craftsmanship. Tenecor

Acrylic Fish Tanks: Your Buying Options by Maria Sanchez

Are you looking to purchase a new acrylic fish tank for your home or your office? If so, have you decided on which particular acrylic fish tank style you would like to purchase? If you have yet to make a decision, you may find that making one isn't as easy as you originally thought. This is because of the selection of acrylic fish tanks that you will find available; they are, literally, unlimited.
When it comes to purchasing a fish tank, including an acrylic fish tank, there are a large number of homeowners and business owners who are concerned with space. If you are limited on the amount of space that you have, but you would still like to purchase an acrylic aquarium, you are advised to examine in wall aquariums, living picture aquariums, and desktop aquariums. While in wall aquariums are most commonly seen in business establishments, an in wall aquarium may be just what you want or need for your home. As for living picture aquariums and desktop aquariums, you will find that they are equally used among homeowners and business owners.
If space is not a concern of yours, you may want to think about examining all of the other types of acrylic fish tanks that are available for sale. One of most popular types of acrylic fish tanks available for sale include fish tanks that come in a particular shape. For example, there are acrylic fish tanks that come in a cylinder shape, a rectangular shape, an L-shape, and in a hexagon shape. Depending on who you decide to purchase an acrylic aquarium from, you may even have a larger selection of acrylic aquarium shapes to choose from. These shaped acrylic aquariums are ideal for creating an elegant, warm, and inviting atmosphere, but they can also be considered space saving as well. Purchasing an L-shaped aquarium to fit into the corner of your home or office, may be able to help you save space. If that is your goal, you are advised to examine the space that you have available for an aquarium, namely the shape of that space, and compare it to the aquariums that are available for sale.
If space really isn't an issue in your home or in your office, you may want to think about purchasing a large acrylic fish tank. These fish tanks are often referred to as ultraquariums. Ultraquariums are most commonly sold as custom built fish tanks, but with their rise in popularity, a number of fish tank manufacturers, including Tenecor, have made these types of acrylic fish tanks available as a standard size. Speaking of size, ultraquariums or large aquariums, most commonly come in a large, rectangular shape. Whether you are looking to spice up your home or your office, you can do so with this type of large acrylic aquarium, as long as you have the space needed to do so.
The above mentioned acrylic aquariums styles are just a few of the many that you may find on the market. Despite an unlimited selection of acrylic fish tanks, you may still find yourself searching for the acrylic aquarium of your dreams. If you do not find exactly what you were looking for, you are advised not to give up. There is a way that you can have exactly what you want, without having to settle for second best. That way involves the purchase of a custom built aquarium. Custom built acrylic aquariums are, literally, the best way to go about getting exactly what you want. When ordering a custom built acrylic aquarium, you will need to work in conjunction with the fish tank supplier or manufacturer of your choice to ensure that your acrylic custom built acquarium turns out exactly as you had hoped it would.
Whichever acrylic fish tank style you choose to go with, whether it be one of the ones mentioned above or not, you are sure to be pleased with your decision to go acrylic. Acrylic aquariums are not only beautiful, but they are beautifully constructed. That construction makes them lighter, clearer, and stronger. In fact, most acrylic aquariums come with a lifetime warranty, ensuring that your new acrylic fish tank will withstand the test of time.
About the Author
Tenecor manufactures custom acrylic aquariums for homes, offices, and commercial applications. Saltwater aquariums are a beautiful edition to any space that needs a relaxing feel. Tenecor