Winter Dandruff Issues and Your Pet's Health

The winter months can bring many beautiful and great experiences, but one that is sure to put a damper on your dogs and cats this winter season is dandruff. This affliction can cause itching and infection, but I will help outline how to avoid this by using shampoos, conditioners and other techniques.

Dandruff or seborrhea sicca, as it is technically called, is defined as the excessive shedding of dead and dying skin cells. We all know what it looks like, flaky and white, and most noticeable on darker colors. But our pets can suffer greatly from dry skin and can become very itchy. This itching and scratching can lead to skin infections and other serious afflictions. When hey scratch the surface of their skin, your pet will be breaking down the natural protection that skin normally provides.

Your pets skin as approximately seven layers and scratching will break them. You will notice scratch marks, possibly bleeding, and redness. Once the skin is broken, any bacteria on the top of the skin can get underneath and may cause infection and more itching. If this is left untreated, your pets dry skin can lead to more dry skin and more itching and become a vicious cycle. In most circumstances, itching can be more uncomfortable than pain and it can keep your pet awake at all hours

A first step is to provide your pet with relief. Consider giving your pet a bath with medicated shampoos and conditioner that you have cleared is safe from your vet. Similar to your hands and legs, when they become dry and itchy, applying soothing lotion can provide immediate relief. A helpful tip is to choose a shampoo that contains aloe or oatmeal or a product that attacks dandruff specifically, can be a great help to your pet.

To aid in prevention of dandruff, you may try adding fatty acid supplements to the diet of your pet. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acid supplements can provide daily relief and can prevent dandruff. Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in fish oil and will also help lubricate your pet's joints. Also consider adding a humidifier to your home, especially during winter months, to help your dog's skin and your own as well. Most home heating can produce very dry heat.

Another significant issue to address is your pet's hydration. Pets that fail to drink enough water can become dehydrated and it is very important that our pets drink plenty of water. Pets that are constantly dehydrated are prone to kidney disease and other serious ailments. If your pet doesn't drink enough water, try adding more water to their food.

Moving along, combing and brushing on a regular basis during the winter can help prevent skin ailments. But, also consider purchasing lubricating sprays that can be applied to the skin after you've finished your pet's grooming. Combing can be preferred over brushing though, so you can remove any dead hair. Combing can be preferred to help hair get to the skin and produce a healthier coat. A great tool to use is a flea comb, its teeth are close together and will ensure the removal of dead hair and it is normally advantageous to remove the dead hair before it comes out naturally around your home.

Isaac Macalister is a frequent contributor for Hartz and has written many articles pertaining to cat and dog needs. Including anything from dog training to summer fun with your dog including tips on Hartz UltraGuard Flea Control.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Isaac_MaCalister

What To Do If Your Dog Or Cat Has A Fever

If your dog or cat has a fever, you are probably very concerned, and have a number of questions. In this article I'll reveal to you the most common causes of fever in cats and dogs, plus the signs to be aware of. Then I'll go into the top 5 remedies that you can immediately use to help your pet's fever, and bring the temperature down fast.

Fever is defined as a higher than normal body temperature in your dog or cat; in veterinary terms this is called pyrexia. A normal dog's temperature is 101 F (38.0 C), a normal cat's temperature is 102 F (38.5 C). Taking your pet's temperature involves placing a thermometer in their rectum. If your pet has a temperature of 103.5 F (39.5 C) or more, they have a fever.

A fever is usually caused by a bacterial or viral infection. Having a high temperature makes it more difficult for bugs to grow in the body. The problem with a fever in pets is that they will often stop drinking; dehydration then becomes the primary concern. Your pet usually will have a fever in response to something going on in their body. The most common cause, I find, is bite wounds. Search your dog or cat well for punctures.

Signs and symptoms of fever in dogs and cats include the primary one of having and above normal body temperature. Your pet may have a decreased appetite and lower energy. Your dog or cat's ears can be hot to the touch and they may pant excessively in the house. Some pets will shiver, others can have an elevated heart rate. All much the same signs that people have with a fever.

If you suspect that your dog or cat has a fever, what should you do? Firstly start with the obvious, and take their temperature, determining if it is elevated. If the temperature is 103.5 F (39.5 C) or more, then they have a fever. If a fever persists for more than 24 hours, and your pet is not drinking, then call your veterinarian. If they are still drinking, or in the interim before going to your veterinarian, here are some additional remedies and supportive care that you can consider.

Keep your dog and cat hydrated. Offer plenty of fresh water in different spots around the house. If your pet refuses to drink, use an eyedropper or turkey baster to squirt water into the side of its mouth. Minerals become depleted when your pet is dehydrated; for an added boost, add Pedialyte, an electrolyte solution available from the pharmacy. Some pets prefer chicken or beef broth, or tuna juice; give them whatever works.

A cool compress is a very safe, easy and inexpensive remedy to consider. f your pet will tolerate it, apply a cold cloth to her belly. The exposed skin will result in some fairly rapid cooling, making her feel a little better.

There is a conventional medication that you can use for your dogs. Aspirin can be safely used in dogs to bring down a fever; never use it in cats. The Aspirin dose is one 325 mg tablet per 40 lbs of body weight given every 12 hours.

Echinacea and Sage are effective antimicrobial herbs. You can give a combined herbal formula of 1 drop per pound twice daily of the tincture. Another option is to use commercially prepared products such as Echinamide. The Dose is 0.1 ml per 10 lbs every 8 hours.

There are a number of homeopathic remedies that you can consider for fever, the more common ones being Belladona 30C and Ferrum Phosphoricum 30C. These can be given every 1-2 hours with a typical dose being 1 capsule per 10-20lbs of body weight.

You should now be much more aware of the signs and symptoms of fever in dogs and cats; more importantly you should be comfortable taking your pet's temperature seeing if is elevated. Fever is a response to disease; common causes include bite wounds and abscess. If your pet is still drinking, then you can use some of the discussed home remedies, such as: cold compresses, the herb Echinacea, and the homeopathic Ferrum phosphoricum.

Dr Andrew Jones is the author of a Free Ebook, Dog and Cat Health Secrets, which gives you over 100 safe, natural and effective at home remedies to solve your pet's health problems quickly and easily at home. He reveals what Vaccines to AVOID and what to give, The BEST food to feed, plus HOW to save money on veterinary fees. Your FREE DOG AND CAT HEALTH SECRETS BOOK is at http://www.theinternetpetvet.com

What To Feed Your Pet Rabbit

Ever wonder what to feed your pet rabbit? New to rabbit ownership? Rabbits are vegetarians that require a diet of grass hays, fresh vegetables, twigs, high protein pellets and occasional fruit treats. Water should be readily available at all times from a heavy duty dish that cannot be easily overturned.

One of the most important elements in a rabbits diet is fiber. This helps to keep the digestive tract healthy and to prevent obesity. Protein is an essential as well, but should be limited to 14-18% of your rabbits diet. Certain long haired breeds of rabbits (Angora and Jersey Wooley) will require a higher amount of protein to help maintain their coats. Rabbits typically need only 1-2% of their daily calories to be from fat. Rabbits can become obese which could lead to serious health issues as they age.

Grass hays are an essential for your rabbits diet, as it is high in fiber. Grass hays are appropriate for rabbits of all ages. Alalfa hay is very high in protein, calories and calcium and is not recommended for rabbits over one year old. Grass should be stored in a dry cool place away from any rodents or animals. It should be green and sweet smelling. Any grass that shows black or yellow discoloration or has evidence of mold should be disposed of. Any plants mixed in the hay should be removed.

Fresh Vegetables provide the nutrients essential to your rabbits digestive health. Do not overfeed these to your rabbits as they can develop intestinal gas, leading to bloat, a serious condition. Always use fresh vegetables, never those about to spoil. These should be introduced slowly to rabbits over 3 months old. A list of vegetables that can be fed often are carrot tops, parsley, cilantro, endive, leaf and romaine lettuce, dandelion greens, flat pea pods, beet greens and swiss chard. Some vegetables should only be given rarely and in small doses. These are broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, brussel sprouts, red clover, iceberg lettuce, turnips and rutabagos. Never feed your rabbit rhubarb leaves, raw beans, raw potatoes, onions or sweet corn.

Twigs allow rabbits to maintain teeth and the bark they chew to provide roughage to their diet.

Pellets should contain 14-18% crude protein, 20-255 crude fiber and about 2% fat. Introduce gradually to your pets diet, so as not to upset their digestive system. These pellets should be stored in a dry sealed container in a cool safe place. If pellets become contaminated in any way, they need to be thrown away as they can be deadly to your pet.

Rabbits love fruit and can be a good treat to enhance their mealtime. Fruit should only be given to rabbits over 6 months old. Safe fruits are apples, peaches, pears, strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, bananas, papayas, mangos, grapes, raisins, kiwi and melons. These should be given in very small quantities because of the sugar content in fruit.

Feeding times should be split between the early morning and evening. Pellets and vegetables can be split between the two but grass hay should be available at all times.

Providing the correct mix of fresh vegetables, grass hay and pellets is the key to keeping your pet rabbit healthy. If allowed to, rabbits will overeat so pay attention to food intake. Also take note of any changes in eating habits as this can be an indication of illness. When in doubt, always consult with a veterinarian trained in rabbit care. Not all are experts and you want to make sure you have one identified before anything serious happens to your pet. Knowing what to feed your pet rabbit will help him to live a healthy, long and happy life.

Nancy Perla is the author of several pet related articles and can be found on http://www.ourlovablepets.com

Doomsday Preppers Often Forget This One Particular Family Member in Their Plans

You've implemented measures to prepare yourself and your family from a tragedy, however have you taken the imperative measures to look after your dog or cat while in a serious event? Many of the extremely heart breaking pictures shortly after a disaster are undoubtedly of the animals which happen to be forgotten or lost. Just by beginning some emergency prepping right away, you will be able to make certain your furry family member is just as safe as the rest of your family.

You can discover a handful of reasonable techniques that you can do to prepare for a disaster which includes building up an emergency pack and also making your individual emergency plan while taking into account your canine's needs. Although you may make your mind up to not retreat due to a disaster, you should prep upfront for the proper care and safety of your pets. Often the optimal choice for you will not invariably be the best solution for your cats and dogs.

For many people, the proposition of leaving their domestic animals is an impossible option, but unfortunately that is just what numerous citizens were pressed to do soon after a hurricane. It is in no way wise to leave one's animals provided that you must leave your home.

Cats and dogs are commonly disoriented soon after a catastrophe and might react unusually. They are more likely to become disoriented, stressed or agitated. This is why, an individual preferably should possess a portable transporter to move your cats and dogs. Always be careful to keep perhaps even the highest trained cats and dogs collared in the days immediately following a crisis.

A person's catastrophe blueprint should certainly include a neighbor or close relative which is able to take your cat or dog if it happens a catastrophe unexpectedly makes you unable to acquire your dogs and cats in a timely manner. One should certainly familiarize your assistant with your domestic animals at this time and teach them where exactly your animals' well liked hiding spots are located.

Decide to go another step farther along just by posting notices around your windows or front doors pinpointing the animals that live in your house just in case you have to make use of emergency workers to help save your animals. In the event that you reside in a condo, it's a good idea to make certain the maintenance office is familiar with your domestic animals.

Be sure to have your dogs and cats' emergency identification tags up-to-date and easily accessible along with their collars, leashes and carriers. What's more, its wise to post a note displayed in a pronounced spot which actually will inform any emergency personnel concerning the spot of your pet emergency situation kit.

This should certainly encourage you to think about the items that an individual might need in case that you and your pet are displaced in a crisis. By simply planning now while you're calm and not under pressure, you are likely to better guarantee the security and well-being of your cat or dog in an emergency situation.

Doomsday preppers must consider take into consideration the hundreds of factors into their disaster plans including their pets. The preppers who take small steps today like visiting The Smart Preppers will be much better prepared for when calamities strike.

Exercising Your Dog

Dogs are a lot like us when it comes to fitness. If dogs do not get enough exercise they will become unfit and gain weight. This is extremely unhealthy for the dog and cause problems like heart disease and many other problems. If your dog is fit and healthy they are likely to live longer which is obviously what everybody wants.

With dogs you cannot all of a sudden start taking them on a 5 mile run as this can cause just as many problems as not exercising at all. You should build up with the extent of which you exercise so you and your dog can build up your cardio-vascular systems and lead healthy lives. You should start with short walks that last for around 15 minutes and once you dog seems fine with these walks you should slowly increase the duration of the walks. At first you should be walking for your dog so you can build up to walks that last for around an hour.

Once you have built up to a walk that lasts for an hour you should decrease the length of the walk but increase the pace. Firstly go back to the 15 minutes walks but you should be jogging this distance as this is likely to challenge your dog. Then like the walks you can slowly increase the distance of this. On these walks you should keep your dog on lead so they do not run off at any point. You can either have an extending lead which gives your dog more freedom or you could have a restricted lead which stops them going somewhere they shouldn't.

You will need to be careful when taking your dog on a walk as you do not want your dog to become exhausted. You can watch this by looking at your dog throughout the walk. If your dog is breathing too heavily then slow it down and if your dog wants to stop then stop. It might be worth having a short break when going for a long walk as this can help your dog catch its breath. In addition to this if it is a hot summer's day then you will need to tone down the walk as the hot weather will make it even more challenging. It is important to have water ready at the end of the walk so your dog can stay hydrated because a lack of water can be really dangerous for your dog.

If you do not fancy going for a 5 mile run with your dog there are other things that you can do to keep your dog fit. Just take your dog for a short walk but play games with your dog along the way. You can do this by playing fetch. You can use a simple tennis ball on a big field and your dog will have hours of fun. You will need to teach your dog to bring the tennis ball back or the idea of fetch will be defeated. More accessories are available to help you have more fun. For example you can get a tennis ball which clips on an extended stick you can throw it further away and this will help your dog's fitness even more. If you are making your dog fetch a ball you need to make sure that your dog is trained so they will not run off or chase cats.

After you feel you can trust your dog then you can begin to exercise your dog. This will benefit the dog as well as having benefits on your fitness as well. In addition to this you will probably have fun with you dog along the way.

Astro Imports is a company that supply to retailers looking to buy wholesale goods. They have operated for many years and as a result are able to help writers like Harry Brant when they are writing articles.

How To Successfully Reduce The Effects Of Pet Allergies?

Allergies are usually caused when body's immune system becomes sensitized to foreign proteins and start attacking them. Apart from some common sources such as dust and pollen, there are many people, which are also allergic to pets. Pet allergies in humans are not only caused due to the proteins that are found in animal dander, but also in the urine and saliva of the pets. The result of such reactions is usually wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing, hives and even itching. These allergies also tend to affect the eyes, which usually results in burning, itching, tearing and swelling of the eyes. As a matter of fact, you cannot distinguish any specific breed of dogs or cats that result in such reactions as almost all the breeds have allergen proteins in their saliva and urine. Additionally, not all people develop symptoms of pet allergies and since allergic reactions develop over specific time and exposure, it is recommended to take special care if you are already suffering from asthma.

Many times, reaction to pet allergies can be quite instantaneous and in certain situations it might even get delayed for hours after exposure to pet dander, urine or saliva. Therefore, if any of your family members is prone to pet allergies, it is recommended to stay off upholstered furniture, where dander gets collected that further aggravate allergies. It is also important to ensure that all the activities related to your pet should be conducted outdoors to make sure the house remains free from any sort of allergens creating an uncomfortable environment for the person suffering from pet allergy. Apart from using various preventive measures, it is also suggested to use air purifier in the house, which is large enough to cover those areas in your house where your pet is allowed to stay. Frequent use of vacuum cleaners can keep the carpets and rugs free from allergens.

Some simple measures that can help you in reducing the effects of pet allergies are:

• Since allergens are sticky, it is recommended to clean your home rigorously. Wash the upholstery and keep the surface uncultured and clean. Since carpets attract maximum allergens, therefore it is recommended to either remove the carpets or regularly use vacuum cleaners.

• Installing air purifiers can be of great help as they are capable in reducing the indoor allergy problems. The filtration system of these purifiers is designed that they can easily be fitted on the central heating units and air conditioning systems to remove the allergens from the air.

• It is also essential to clean your pets regularly by giving them a regular bath that will successfully reduce the allergen count in your house.

Nikki John is an eminent writer and good analyst.

Air Purifiers For Pets - 5 Features For Effectiveness

An effective air cleaner for pets needs to successfully handle all the issues that your pets can possibly have. That includes hair, dander, odors and other issues that can develop in a heartbeat. Here are 5 features to look for in an air purifier that can mean success for you and your pet.

Odorizing Filter---A carbon-based filter is best for odors. Having a purifier that contains a substantial amount of activated carbon will go a long way to absorbing the odors from the air.

Odors that can be eliminated range from the smell of the skin oil produced by the sebaceous glands, something your pet rolled in outside and brought in with it, or even cooking odors from dinner last night.

The bottom line is that for gaseous pollutants carbon is renowned for its cleaning capabilities; and any purifier you want to be effective should have one.

Ability to Remove Urine Smell---As a pet owner, you don't need anyone to tell you that accidents are going to happen. If you were afraid of that you probably wouldn't be flexible enough to open your home to a pet.

So it only makes sense to choose a cleaner that can step up and improve the air quality when this happens. As wonderful as carbon is at getting rid of odors, urine (particularly that of cats) is strong stuff.

Look for a cleaner that not only has carbon, but one that contains an additive that is specifically designed to eliminate urine. Should an accident happen when you're not around, you will have a cleaner that is already at work removing the smell.

Micron-Sized Filter---One of the most potent allergens known is pet dander. These micron-sized pieces of dead skin are being shed continually by your pet to make way for newer, healthier skin.

This is process is a normal and healthy part of their growth and development, and will continue for as long as you have your pet. A HEPA or high efficiency particle arresting filter is what is needed to remove these invisible (to the unaided human eye) from the air.

Many times it is an allergy to the dander that causes owners to have to think about finding another home for their pet. Keeping the dander down will literally help everyone in the house breathe cleaner air.

Easy Maintenance Procedure---If you want to spend your leisure time the way you want to, checking on the required maintenance before you decide rather than afterwards is a good idea. Some cleaners require that you wash, spray, and/or charge the filter frequently.

A better choice is a filter that does not require you to do anything on the inside of the cleaner. Why? Because having to go inside the unit frequently means interrupting filtration. And when filtration stops, pollutants start to accumulate immediately. The whole purpose of filtration is to keep the air quality high all the time.

Vacuuming the outside of the cleaner whenever you vacuum your home is all the maintenance a unit should require. And a filter with a pro-rated warranty that can last for at least 5 years is an excellent indication that the filter will last.

Continuous Cleaning Capability---As wonderful as all of these features are, they don't mean much unless the unit can operate safely and effectively 24 hours a day.

To do this it needs to have a split capacitor motor that is designed for high revolutions per minute. Look in the owner's manual or at the technical specifications on line to make sure this type of motor is in any unit you consider.

Remove pet hair, dander, odor, and other more normal household pollutants with the Pet Machine Air Purifier from PurerAir.com starting today. See it now at http://purerair.com/austin_air_pet_machine.html

A Heated Pet Bed Is One of Several Tips on How to Protect Your Pet From Winter Temperatures

As the winter months approach, special attention should be given to the unique challenges faced in keeping outdoor pets safe, protected and comfortable. Like humans, dog and cats can be volatile to injury from the cold. Of course the smaller the pet, the more volatile it is to colder temperatures. Elderly or young pets are also more vulnerable to colder temperatures and extra care should always be taken. Although I have never been a supporter of keeping any dog or cat completely outside, no matter the length of time your pet is exposed to the cold, here are some helpful suggestions on how to take the best possible care of your pet.

1. Although this may sound obvious, it is essential to make sure your pet is healthy. A healthy pet will be able to withstand the effects of winter more readily. Young, elderly or ailing pets are much less able to adapt to the colder temperatures, and as a result, we need to take special care to ensure their safety.

2. A dry shelter, that remains dry from all the weather elements (rain, sleet, snow, wind), is a basic need that must be provided. If you have chosen to either build a dog house yourself or have it built by someone else, using insulation with a high R-value sandwiched in the walls, roof and floor is an excellent start. The door of the dog house should be oriented away from the wind, and in a location that does not have a water problem such as flooding.

3. Even with shelter provided, it is very important to provide warmth in that dry space. Placing a nice thick, cozy layer of cedar chips or hay can be a great step in helping your pet stay warm. For many outdoor shelter venues such as a garage, covered porch, barn, shed or doghouse a heated outdoor pet bed is a terrific option for which your pet will constantly be thankful. It's important you choose a bed specifically designed for the outdoors. These beds are made of soft PVC and do not absorb water, always providing comfortable warmth even in below freezing temperatures. You will find that a heated dog bed or heated cat bed will become their new favorite place and their oasis during the colder temperatures.

4. Potential dehydration is a concern throughout the year. So a constant supply of clean, unfrozen water is very important. The water source should be protected from the elements or heated to prevent freezing. Low wattage heated dog bowls work very well as a solution in making certain unfrozen water is always available.

5. Outside pets can really burn through the calories while trying to stay warm in the winter. So make sure an ample supply of nutritious food is provided. Just like in humans, food calories are burned to stay warm, and animals that spend time outside simply need more to eat.

6. Carefully examine your pet everyday to make sure they are not showing any signs of stress from the cold. Don't forget about their paws. Exposure to the winter cold can leave paws chapped and tender. Check the pads of their feet and the hair between their toes to make sure there is no evidence of ice balls, salt crystals or de-icing chemicals sticking to them. Massage petroleum jelly into paw pads to help protect them from these dangers.

Just as we have to protect ourselves from the dangers of the winter temperatures, our furry buddies need similar care and protection. If the weather is too cold for you to spend prolonged periods of time, well then, it's probably too cold for your pet as well. For more information on heated pet beds, and other items of comfort for you pet, please visit us at http://www.petcratesandmore.com. Sandy Stone is a lifetime lover of animals. With more than 20 years of management experience, she blended her passion for animals with her business acumen and started a business aimed at providing comfort for our pets.

5 Tips to Keep Your Pet Warm in the Winter

We're rounding the seasonal corner into the fall months, which means that winter is just a ways away. With the winter come the usual maladies like sniffles, flu and colds that are expected for humans; however, winter is especially a tough time for pets that spend any regular amount of time outside. How can an owner effectively protect their pet from the harsher climate without compromising normal behaviors such as regular walks and outdoor independence?

Few people realize this, but winter has the same impact on our pets that it does to humans. A coat of fur can only do so much; precautions must be taken to protect the health and wellbeing of your best friends in the chilly winter months ahead. To avoid a trip to the veterinarian, the following are some points and precautions a responsible pet owner should make for ensuring health in low temperatures.

Age
A pet's age is a definite deal-breaker on the extent and frequency that they should be allowed outdoors in cold weather. Especially young dogs and cats should not be kept outside for extended periods of time. Also, elderly pets are equally vulnerable in the cold. Young and old pets do not have the required body fat, metabolism speed, and fur to be properly protected in low temperatures; they should be kept inside for their own good.

Clothing
Pet clothing is adorable, right? A puppy wrapped up snug in a miniature Bill Cosby sweater? Awww. But, be responsible with it. While clothing is a popular way of warming up your pets in cold temperature, it is counter-effective if utilized incorrectly. If a piece of clothing becomes wet, remove it. Wet clothing is as counterproductive for an animal as it is for a human. Also, pet clothing will not make the weather more bearable for elderly or young pets. Pet clothing is for pets of a healthy outdoor age, and is not a suitable substitute for a full coat of fur or insulating body fat.

Foresight
Aside from the cold, there are certain other seasonal behaviors that a pet owner should look out for. Always know where your pet is and what they are doing. Underneath a car is a popular place for cats to hide in cold months. The lack of frost and the warmth above is most appealing. Always check under your car and maybe even honk the horn a few times to scare any hiding animals away. Also, spilled antifreeze should be cleaned up immediately. It's sticky sweetness will be alluring to animals that could seriously poison themselves by attempting to eat it. If your pet does ingest antifreeze or any similar chemical, veterinary attention should be taken immediately. Take your pet to the nearest animal hospital; it doesn't take very much to be a fatal dose.

Treatment
This brings us to treatment. If your pet experiences a negative reaction to the cold (stiff muscles, weak appetite, shivering, lethargy), there are some quick measures you can take. Bring the pet into a warm room and wrap them with dry, warm blankets or towels. Rest a warm water bottle, wrapped in a towel, at their abdomen, and immediately call the veterinarian. A vet will be best able to tell you the next course of action and if you should risk traveling to a vet clinic.

Empathy
Above all, have empathy for your pet. The best rule of thumb is that if the weather is too cold for you, chances are it's too cold for your pet in extended exposures. Give them a safe spot in the home, hallway, or well insulated garage to retreat to during extreme temperatures, and your pet should stay healthy and incident free during periods of cold.

Timber Ridge Animal Hospital is a veterinary hospital in Bonney Lake, WA. This vet offers the best veterinary care in the area. Go to http://www.veterinarybonneylake.com for more information!

Children and the Passing of a Pet

To this day, I can still vividly remember the day our pet turtle got away and ended up under the refrigerator. I was about 9 years old and my three sisters and I, along with my mother, had no idea what to do. We waited for Dad to get home knowing that he would save the day.

Usually when Dad got home we all rushed to the door to give him a big hug and a heart felt greeting. On that day however, the poor guy had 4 kids all yelling at him that our beloved turtle had ended up under the fridge and we couldn't coax him to come back out.

With his shirt and tie still firmly on, Dad grabbed the fridge and started to shuffle it back and forth, moving it forward a few inches at a time. "Don't crush him Dad"... we all chirped as he strained to move that old steel built relic of the 1960s. Bit by bit, the fridge came far enough out for us to look behind it. There was our turtle, covered in dust and not moving one iota. He had spent the better part of 5 hours under there and was gone for good.

It didn't appear that moving the fridge had hurt him in any way because he was all the way at the back, almost against the wall. My sisters and I were devastated. At the time, he was the only pet in the house and it just had a big impact on us. We all felt the sadness but we also felt a little guilty for having taken him out of his glass home and letting him walk around on the floor.

My father could clearly see that we were all saddened by the event so he decided to do something special. He brought the whole family upstairs to the bathroom and basically performed a kind of funeral for the turtle. He told us that the turtle was going back to the river where it was appropriate for his final resting place to be. He was careful not to make too big a deal out of it and explained that the turtle was not like a cat or a dog in that it didn't have the kind of interactions that a mammal can have with humans.

When a family with children loses a cat or a dog it's important to have a period in which to grieve. It is more than OK to cry and console each other. That pet was a companion and a friend and it is entirely appropriate to show emotion. Make sure the kids are able to speak with you about how they are feeling. It's important for them to get it all out and not keep things bottled up inside.

Some people have suggested over the years that the very first thing to do after your cat or dog passes away is to head straight to the pet shop to get another pet. It's clear that another pet can fill the void and bring new and wonderful interactions with the family. However, if done too quickly, it will give the kids the impression that the former pet was not so important and/or very much replaceable.

A good way to proceed is to spend a few weeks grieving and put a picture of the deceased pet in the living room. After a certain period of time, which should be determined by the kids, they will usually suggest that a new pet would be nice. Once the children understand that the new pet will not be a replacement and that all the great memories will never go away, you can decide which pet to look for.

No dog or cat (or turtle!) will ever replace your former pet, but new memories are just around the corner and the new family member will fill the void. This is a great way for the family to spend real quality time together. You can visit the local SPCA, go to pet stores and really make the decision and choice a family affair.

Phil Patton

http://www.petsnbeyond.com/

Grieving for our pets is no different than grieving for a friend.

At PetsNBeyond, we strive to make your life easier and your pet happier!.

What To Do If Your Dog Or Cat Has A Fever

If your dog or cat has a fever, you are probably very concerned, and have a number of questions. In this article I'll reveal to you the most common causes of fever in cats and dogs, plus the signs to be aware of. Then I'll go into the top 5 remedies that you can immediately use to help your pet's fever, and bring the temperature down fast.

Fever is defined as a higher than normal body temperature in your dog or cat; in veterinary terms this is called pyrexia. A normal dog's temperature is 101 F (38.0 C), a normal cat's temperature is 102 F (38.5 C). Taking your pet's temperature involves placing a thermometer in their rectum. If your pet has a temperature of 103.5 F (39.5 C) or more, they have a fever.

A fever is usually caused by a bacterial or viral infection. Having a high temperature makes it more difficult for bugs to grow in the body. The problem with a fever in pets is that they will often stop drinking; dehydration then becomes the primary concern. Your pet usually will have a fever in response to something going on in their body. The most common cause, I find, is bite wounds. Search your dog or cat well for punctures.

Signs and symptoms of fever in dogs and cats include the primary one of having and above normal body temperature. Your pet may have a decreased appetite and lower energy. Your dog or cat's ears can be hot to the touch and they may pant excessively in the house. Some pets will shiver, others can have an elevated heart rate. All much the same signs that people have with a fever.

If you suspect that your dog or cat has a fever, what should you do? Firstly start with the obvious, and take their temperature, determining if it is elevated. If the temperature is 103.5 F (39.5 C) or more, then they have a fever. If a fever persists for more than 24 hours, and your pet is not drinking, then call your veterinarian. If they are still drinking, or in the interim before going to your veterinarian, here are some additional remedies and supportive care that you can consider.

Keep your dog and cat hydrated. Offer plenty of fresh water in different spots around the house. If your pet refuses to drink, use an eyedropper or turkey baster to squirt water into the side of its mouth. Minerals become depleted when your pet is dehydrated; for an added boost, add Pedialyte, an electrolyte solution available from the pharmacy. Some pets prefer chicken or beef broth, or tuna juice; give them whatever works.

A cool compress is a very safe, easy and inexpensive remedy to consider. f your pet will tolerate it, apply a cold cloth to her belly. The exposed skin will result in some fairly rapid cooling, making her feel a little better.

There is a conventional medication that you can use for your dogs. Aspirin can be safely used in dogs to bring down a fever; never use it in cats. The Aspirin dose is one 325 mg tablet per 40 lbs of body weight given every 12 hours.

Echinacea and Sage are effective antimicrobial herbs. You can give a combined herbal formula of 1 drop per pound twice daily of the tincture. Another option is to use commercially prepared products such as Echinamide. The Dose is 0.1 ml per 10 lbs every 8 hours.

There are a number of homeopathic remedies that you can consider for fever, the more common ones being Belladona 30C and Ferrum Phosphoricum 30C. These can be given every 1-2 hours with a typical dose being 1 capsule per 10-20lbs of body weight.

You should now be much more aware of the signs and symptoms of fever in dogs and cats; more importantly you should be comfortable taking your pet's temperature seeing if is elevated. Fever is a response to disease; common causes include bite wounds and abscess. If your pet is still drinking, then you can use some of the discussed home remedies, such as: cold compresses, the herb Echinacea, and the homeopathic Ferrum phosphoricum.

Dr Andrew Jones is the author of a Free Ebook, Dog and Cat Health Secrets, which gives you over 100 safe, natural and effective at home remedies to solve your pet's health problems quickly and easily at home. He reveals what Vaccines to AVOID and what to give, The BEST food to feed, plus HOW to save money on veterinary fees. Your FREE DOG AND CAT HEALTH SECRETS BOOK is at http://www.theinternetpetvet.com

What To Feed Your Pet Rabbit

Ever wonder what to feed your pet rabbit? New to rabbit ownership? Rabbits are vegetarians that require a diet of grass hays, fresh vegetables, twigs, high protein pellets and occasional fruit treats. Water should be readily available at all times from a heavy duty dish that cannot be easily overturned.

One of the most important elements in a rabbits diet is fiber. This helps to keep the digestive tract healthy and to prevent obesity. Protein is an essential as well, but should be limited to 14-18% of your rabbits diet. Certain long haired breeds of rabbits (Angora and Jersey Wooley) will require a higher amount of protein to help maintain their coats. Rabbits typically need only 1-2% of their daily calories to be from fat. Rabbits can become obese which could lead to serious health issues as they age.

Grass hays are an essential for your rabbits diet, as it is high in fiber. Grass hays are appropriate for rabbits of all ages. Alalfa hay is very high in protein, calories and calcium and is not recommended for rabbits over one year old. Grass should be stored in a dry cool place away from any rodents or animals. It should be green and sweet smelling. Any grass that shows black or yellow discoloration or has evidence of mold should be disposed of. Any plants mixed in the hay should be removed.

Fresh Vegetables provide the nutrients essential to your rabbits digestive health. Do not overfeed these to your rabbits as they can develop intestinal gas, leading to bloat, a serious condition. Always use fresh vegetables, never those about to spoil. These should be introduced slowly to rabbits over 3 months old. A list of vegetables that can be fed often are carrot tops, parsley, cilantro, endive, leaf and romaine lettuce, dandelion greens, flat pea pods, beet greens and swiss chard. Some vegetables should only be given rarely and in small doses. These are broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, brussel sprouts, red clover, iceberg lettuce, turnips and rutabagos. Never feed your rabbit rhubarb leaves, raw beans, raw potatoes, onions or sweet corn.

Twigs allow rabbits to maintain teeth and the bark they chew to provide roughage to their diet.

Pellets should contain 14-18% crude protein, 20-255 crude fiber and about 2% fat. Introduce gradually to your pets diet, so as not to upset their digestive system. These pellets should be stored in a dry sealed container in a cool safe place. If pellets become contaminated in any way, they need to be thrown away as they can be deadly to your pet.

Rabbits love fruit and can be a good treat to enhance their mealtime. Fruit should only be given to rabbits over 6 months old. Safe fruits are apples, peaches, pears, strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, bananas, papayas, mangos, grapes, raisins, kiwi and melons. These should be given in very small quantities because of the sugar content in fruit.

Feeding times should be split between the early morning and evening. Pellets and vegetables can be split between the two but grass hay should be available at all times.

Providing the correct mix of fresh vegetables, grass hay and pellets is the key to keeping your pet rabbit healthy. If allowed to, rabbits will overeat so pay attention to food intake. Also take note of any changes in eating habits as this can be an indication of illness. When in doubt, always consult with a veterinarian trained in rabbit care. Not all are experts and you want to make sure you have one identified before anything serious happens to your pet. Knowing what to feed your pet rabbit will help him to live a healthy, long and happy life.

Nancy Perla is the author of several pet related articles and can be found on http://www.ourlovablepets.com

Doomsday Preppers Often Forget This One Particular Family Member in Their Plans

You've implemented measures to prepare yourself and your family from a tragedy, however have you taken the imperative measures to look after your dog or cat while in a serious event? Many of the extremely heart breaking pictures shortly after a disaster are undoubtedly of the animals which happen to be forgotten or lost. Just by beginning some emergency prepping right away, you will be able to make certain your furry family member is just as safe as the rest of your family.

You can discover a handful of reasonable techniques that you can do to prepare for a disaster which includes building up an emergency pack and also making your individual emergency plan while taking into account your canine's needs. Although you may make your mind up to not retreat due to a disaster, you should prep upfront for the proper care and safety of your pets. Often the optimal choice for you will not invariably be the best solution for your cats and dogs.

For many people, the proposition of leaving their domestic animals is an impossible option, but unfortunately that is just what numerous citizens were pressed to do soon after a hurricane. It is in no way wise to leave one's animals provided that you must leave your home.

Cats and dogs are commonly disoriented soon after a catastrophe and might react unusually. They are more likely to become disoriented, stressed or agitated. This is why, an individual preferably should possess a portable transporter to move your cats and dogs. Always be careful to keep perhaps even the highest trained cats and dogs collared in the days immediately following a crisis.

A person's catastrophe blueprint should certainly include a neighbor or close relative which is able to take your cat or dog if it happens a catastrophe unexpectedly makes you unable to acquire your dogs and cats in a timely manner. One should certainly familiarize your assistant with your domestic animals at this time and teach them where exactly your animals' well liked hiding spots are located.

Decide to go another step farther along just by posting notices around your windows or front doors pinpointing the animals that live in your house just in case you have to make use of emergency workers to help save your animals. In the event that you reside in a condo, it's a good idea to make certain the maintenance office is familiar with your domestic animals.

Be sure to have your dogs and cats' emergency identification tags up-to-date and easily accessible along with their collars, leashes and carriers. What's more, its wise to post a note displayed in a pronounced spot which actually will inform any emergency personnel concerning the spot of your pet emergency situation kit.

This should certainly encourage you to think about the items that an individual might need in case that you and your pet are displaced in a crisis. By simply planning now while you're calm and not under pressure, you are likely to better guarantee the security and well-being of your cat or dog in an emergency situation.

Exercising Your Dog

Dogs are a lot like us when it comes to fitness. If dogs do not get enough exercise they will become unfit and gain weight. This is extremely unhealthy for the dog and cause problems like heart disease and many other problems. If your dog is fit and healthy they are likely to live longer which is obviously what everybody wants.

With dogs you cannot all of a sudden start taking them on a 5 mile run as this can cause just as many problems as not exercising at all. You should build up with the extent of which you exercise so you and your dog can build up your cardio-vascular systems and lead healthy lives. You should start with short walks that last for around 15 minutes and once you dog seems fine with these walks you should slowly increase the duration of the walks. At first you should be walking for your dog so you can build up to walks that last for around an hour.

Once you have built up to a walk that lasts for an hour you should decrease the length of the walk but increase the pace. Firstly go back to the 15 minutes walks but you should be jogging this distance as this is likely to challenge your dog. Then like the walks you can slowly increase the distance of this. On these walks you should keep your dog on lead so they do not run off at any point. You can either have an extending lead which gives your dog more freedom or you could have a restricted lead which stops them going somewhere they shouldn't.

You will need to be careful when taking your dog on a walk as you do not want your dog to become exhausted. You can watch this by looking at your dog throughout the walk. If your dog is breathing too heavily then slow it down and if your dog wants to stop then stop. It might be worth having a short break when going for a long walk as this can help your dog catch its breath. In addition to this if it is a hot summer's day then you will need to tone down the walk as the hot weather will make it even more challenging. It is important to have water ready at the end of the walk so your dog can stay hydrated because a lack of water can be really dangerous for your dog.

If you do not fancy going for a 5 mile run with your dog there are other things that you can do to keep your dog fit. Just take your dog for a short walk but play games with your dog along the way. You can do this by playing fetch. You can use a simple tennis ball on a big field and your dog will have hours of fun. You will need to teach your dog to bring the tennis ball back or the idea of fetch will be defeated. More accessories are available to help you have more fun. For example you can get a tennis ball which clips on an extended stick you can throw it further away and this will help your dog's fitness even more. If you are making your dog fetch a ball you need to make sure that your dog is trained so they will not run off or chase cats.

After you feel you can trust your dog then you can begin to exercise your dog. This will benefit the dog as well as having benefits on your fitness as well. In addition to this you will probably have fun with you dog along the way.

How To Successfully Reduce The Effects Of Pet Allergies?

Allergies are usually caused when body's immune system becomes sensitized to foreign proteins and start attacking them. Apart from some common sources such as dust and pollen, there are many people, which are also allergic to pets. Pet allergies in humans are not only caused due to the proteins that are found in animal dander, but also in the urine and saliva of the pets. The result of such reactions is usually wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing, hives and even itching. These allergies also tend to affect the eyes, which usually results in burning, itching, tearing and swelling of the eyes. As a matter of fact, you cannot distinguish any specific breed of dogs or cats that result in such reactions as almost all the breeds have allergen proteins in their saliva and urine. Additionally, not all people develop symptoms of pet allergies and since allergic reactions develop over specific time and exposure, it is recommended to take special care if you are already suffering from asthma.

Many times, reaction to pet allergies can be quite instantaneous and in certain situations it might even get delayed for hours after exposure to pet dander, urine or saliva. Therefore, if any of your family members is prone to pet allergies, it is recommended to stay off upholstered furniture, where dander gets collected that further aggravate allergies. It is also important to ensure that all the activities related to your pet should be conducted outdoors to make sure the house remains free from any sort of allergens creating an uncomfortable environment for the person suffering from pet allergy. Apart from using various preventive measures, it is also suggested to use air purifier in the house, which is large enough to cover those areas in your house where your pet is allowed to stay. Frequent use of vacuum cleaners can keep the carpets and rugs free from allergens.

Some simple measures that can help you in reducing the effects of pet allergies are:

• Since allergens are sticky, it is recommended to clean your home rigorously. Wash the upholstery and keep the surface uncultured and clean. Since carpets attract maximum allergens, therefore it is recommended to either remove the carpets or regularly use vacuum cleaners.

• Installing air purifiers can be of great help as they are capable in reducing the indoor allergy problems. The filtration system of these purifiers is designed that they can easily be fitted on the central heating units and air conditioning systems to remove the allergens from the air.

• It is also essential to clean your pets regularly by giving them a regular bath that will successfully reduce the allergen count in your house.

Nikki John is an eminent writer and good analyst.

Ear Mites: Highly Contagious, But Treatable, Parasites

Ear mites(Otodectes cynotis)are parasites that live in the ear canals of cats, dogs, rabbits and ferrets and are the most common cause of ear infection in kittens and young cats.

The mites cause intense irritation in the ears and on the skin. A dark waxy material will build up in the ear canal and sometimes the mites can be seen as tiny white dots moving on the debris. Crusty lesions and hair loss may develop on the skin from the animal aggressively scratching and over-grooming. Occasionally the animal may develop an aural hematoma (ruptured blood vessels in the ear) from excessive head shaking and scratching. The ear mites are highly contagious and transferred by direct contact with another infested animal. Control of the mites is especially difficult in litters, kennels and catteries. In these situations, environmental flea control can be effective in controlling the infestation. Individual animals can be treated by your veterinarian with a local ear medication and/or a topical flea control. If there is more than one animal in the household, all animals should be examined and possibly treated for ear mites.

The ear mite's life cycle is 3 weeks long and takes place entirely on the infected animal. However, they can live a very short time in the environment. Ear mites may cause a temporary itchy rash on susceptible people if there are infested pets in the household. Eradication of the mites from the infected animals will cure the problem. Occasionally, the mites can be seen by the naked eye as a tiny white speck moving around on a dark crusty material in the ear.

Your veterinarian will make the diagnosis by visually seeing the mites, looking through an otoscope into the ear canal, or by microscopic examination of debris from the ear. In some cases, the ears may be so painful the animal will need to be sedated or anesthetized to properly examine and treat the ears. Treatment often requires a thorough cleaning of the ears, administering medication(s), and a flea spray or shampoo to remove mites that may be on other parts of the body, and treating the indoor environment.

There are ear medications labeled for the treatment of ear mites but there are no products labeled for use in the environment or on an animal's skin. However, many flea products are effective in controlling the mites. Your veterinarian will advise you about which insecticidal products are suitable for the animal that is infected with ear mites.

* See Ear Mites on Video taken by Neartown Animal Clinic

See your veterinarian if your pet shows any of the above symptoms.

Dana Ellis - Neartown Animal Clinic in Houston, Texas
http://www.neartownvet.com

Halloween Safety Tips for Pet Owners

These days, Halloween is treated on par with Christmas as a major holiday for decorating and parties. It's not uncommon to see neighbors go overboard with spooky decor - be it skull lights lining the eaves or fake tombstones on the lawn. When you own a pet, Halloween can either be an ecstatic or trying time, depending on your dog or cat's disposition. If this is your first Halloween with a four-footed friend at home, you should definitely take heed of holiday safety tips.

1) Be careful with decorations. If you plan to swath your home in fake cobwebs or put up a Halloween tree (they do exist!), be mindful of choking hazards. A dog or cat might get tangled up in gauzy decorations or try to taste something inedible. If possible, keep the Halloween accents out of reach of paws and claws.

2) Be careful with treats. If you plan to keep a bowl of candy out for trick or treaters, it's probable a curious dog will want to sample what you're offering. Chocolate especially is dangerous for dogs, so you should keep candy out of reach when there's nobody at the door.

3) Keep dogs on leash when going out. The sight of dozens of costumed people on the streets may prove too much for your dog, and you may consider keeping him indoors until the peak trick or treating hour has passed. If he has to go out, though, keep a good leash on him can be useful if your dog is not used to Halloween nights.

4) Keep noise to a minimum. Some people like to augment their Halloween atmosphere with sound effects. My father used to play a haunted house record every year when we were little. While it may be good fun, if you find your pets are irritated by them you may want to opt for silence.

5) Have pet treats ready. If any dogs come to your door with their kids, you might consider having a treat out for them if the owners allow it. If anybody offers your dog treat, definitely make sure it's safe to eat. Many neighborhoods that host Halloween activities will try to include dogs in the celebration.

Lastly, if you have a costume for your dog and he resists wearing it, don't push him. It may feel uncomfortable if he's not used to wearing clothing, and you don't want your pet to be unhappy and have bad behavior encouraged. Watch your pets this Halloween and take cues from how they react, then act accordingly.

Interventional Endoscopy: Making Pet Care Safer and Cheaper

Most pet owners are well aware that, sometimes, it can be a chore preventing your pet from accidentally eating something that they shouldn't. It's not like you can blame an animal for eating something that looks edible to them, it's just part of their lives to eat what's presented to them, but that doesn't keep them from eating dangerous things such as nails, needles, chew toys, or fish hooks that could cause some serious damage or even kill your pet if the proper care isn't taken. However, removing the offending item isn't always safe either since any animal can run the risk of a complication with their anesthesia that can be fatal, not even counting the ways an actual surgery might go wrong. Luckily, there does exist a safer and cheaper alternative to surgery in these instances, a procedure known as interventional endoscopy that some people may be familiar with as a procedure sometimes used on people as well. Interventional endoscopy is when a vet, or doctor, threads a specially designed camera, called an endoscope, down the patient's throat or in through some other orifice which is then used to image the problem area to determine what exactly is wrong, from a swallowed item to kidney stones. In some cases, the vet can even use the endoscope to take samples of foreign bodies for testing or remove the offending item entirely without ever having to expose your pet to the dangers of surgery.

The end result is that interventional endoscopy can prove a great boon to your pet's welfare when they aren't required to be under anesthesia for as long or suffer the after-effects of an invasive procedure. This isn't to say some problems don't require surgery to fix, but if you can solve the problem through an interventional endoscopy then it'd be silly to do otherwise since you'd be unnecessarily putting your pet through an extended recovery and potentially dangerous procedure for nothing! While a pet's safety is the first concern on people's minds when it comes to illness or injury, there's another important fact about interventional endoscopy that should factor into every pet owner's decision when deciding how to treat their pets... cost. As can be expected, an interventional endoscopy is cheaper than full-blown surgery due to requiring a shorter ICU stay after the procedure and less anesthesia. Since the animal hospital's cost goes down, it takes less money out of your own pocket which is always a good thing. The next time your pet needs surgery in order to help them, ask your vet if an interventional endoscopy might be a more viable alternative. Many major animal hospitals will have the facilities set up for this procedure, in an emergency or not, and in many cases your vet will recommend a facility that is equipped to perform an interventional endoscopy if they themselves don't have that capability. At the end of the day, you have to do what's right when it comes to your pet's health and well-being and we can thank pioneers in animal medicine who are willing to try new procedures or use surgeries and such used on people on animals for a cheaper, safer alternative to surgery like interventional endoscopy.

For more information about Veterinary Emergencies, visit http://www.avets.us/.

Hamster Breeding Cycle

Hamsters are one particular pet which has a very typical breeding procedure and there goes a lot into conceiving hamster pups. They have a natural tendency to mate every week and there is no bar to which breed they belong to. The months from April to October are known as the hamster's mating season. A male and female hamster when left together inside a cage are bound to make love even if they both are interlinked by blood family relationships.

It is a fact that male hamsters have a higher and quicker level of sexual arousal than female hamsters. They force the females to mate with them every day and their desire even arises more than once a day. But the female hamsters undergo a cycle of four days during which no amount of pressure from the male counterpart would enable them to have sex.

At the fourth day of her cycle the female becomes ready to have intercourse with a smelly white liquid oozing out of her vagina. This attracts the male hamsters to mate and also the female rear freezes in the air. The male would initially start with some foreplay to provide pleasure to the female hamster using his erectile penis. Then they would both willingly have intercourse during which always the male dominates.

Once they are done with their mating she needs a dimly light and warm atmosphere to positively conceive. The pregnancy period is sixteen days and on the sixteenth day she will give birth to cute, little hamster pups. The normal number of babies that breed in one litter is around ten, which may come down to eight in count if the mother hamster suffers from genetic anomalies.

They give birth in a secluded environment and the mother hamster does not like to be interrupted. Often she becomes exhausted while giving birth because there are so many pups, and she gives up pushing which suffocates many of the unborn baby hamsters.

But those which come out successfully are caressed by the mother hamster and are cleaned up from the placenta covering. The newborn hamsters are then fed their mother's breast milk until they have the strength to finally move around. But within twenty four hours of birth the mother hamster becomes open to mating again.

While the female hamster would be busy having sex the new pups remain closely attached to each other and in a cozy ball, whining for their mother's attention. Then within forty five days the pups will be grown up and be eligible to mate and breed on their own.

If you'd like to learn more about the Teddy Bear Hamster, or other hamster breeding, grooming tips visit: everythingaboutteddybearhamsters.com

Tips on Storing and Keeping Your Pet Food Fresh

When you have a pet in your home, it can feel as if you simply have another family member. Keeping your pet healthy and happy is often a priority for many pet owners, and it can start with shopping for the right food and keeping your pet's food fresh and tasty for them to enjoy while getting all of the nutrients and vitamins they need. Keeping your pet's food fresh is possible by abiding by a few tips to help you with keeping any type of pet food whether it is dog food or cat food fresh for all of the pets you have in your home.

Tips for Keeping Your Pet's Food Fresh

First, it is important to check the expiration date of the pet food you are looking to buy to ensure you are not purchasing old food that has been sitting on store shelves for months or even years.

Create a label when you open your dog or cat food, especially if you are using a large bag of dry food. On the label you create, be sure to include the date you purchased the food and also the date you opened it so you can keep track of how long it has been exposed to the air and how long it takes your pet to typically finish the bag off.

There are also pet storage bins available if you prefer to keep the food as airtight as possible when you are storing it in your home or even outside of outdoor pets. Pet food storage bins are often plastic and resealable so you can easily access the food while keeping it fresh for extended periods of time. It is recommended to keep the original bag of food within the actual pet storage bins to keep the food's oils and ingredients from seeping into the plastic of the bins, which can cause the flavor to leave the food while tainting the freshness the food has as well.

Rotating your pet's food over time to give them new sources of protein, vitamins, minerals and even antioxidants will help them to maintain a healthy immune system while also giving them more taste options when it comes to eating each day, helping to boost their happiness.

Comparing Your Shopping Options

When you are shopping for pet food of any kind, you have the option to shop at local pet stores and food supply stores in addition to also shopping right from home with the use of a supermarket that stocks the type of food you need for your pet. Ordering your cat food or dog food online will allow you to do so right from home finding the ideal type of food for any animal you have in your home. It is possible to order large bags of dry pet food in bulk online in addition to also ordering singular canned wet food for your pet as well, depending on what you prefer to feed the pets in your home.

Pet Vaccination 101 - The Basics Dog Owners Need to Know

When a dog lover takes on the responsibility of buying or adopting a dog, there are some basic pet vaccination facts you should know. Vaccination for pets is absolutely imperative to keep that pet healthy and safe. There is actually a dog vaccines schedule that those who own dogs must adhere to, but, once you establish care at a veterinarian, he/she will help you keep your pet on track with that vaccination schedule. You will receive postcard reminders in the mail that your dog's vaccinations are coming due as some are due yearly while others less often. When you bring a puppy into your home, it is your responsibility to find a vet immediately and get the puppy the first round of necessary vaccinations.

Doggie Diseases

Puppies are highly susceptible to a number of deadly disease, and for this reason, vaccinations are a must when you bring home a puppy. You must do whatever you can to keep that puppy healthy and make sure as he grows into adulthood, he is safe to be around, especially if there are children around. Vaccinations keep you and your dog safe and healthy for many, many years so you can enjoy a long, healthy life together. Here are the most common diseases for dogs:

Distemper
Parvovirus
Para influenza
Rabies
Leptospirosis
Giardia
Coronavirus
Bordetella
Bronchiseptica
Lyme Disease
Vaccination Times

According to the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), the first distemper vaccination should be given shortly after weaning and before the puppy is taken home to a new family or is exposed to other dogs. Many vets recommend vaccinating puppies at 5-6 weeks of age with a combination of distemper, measles and Para influenza vaccines. At five weeks, puppies must have a parvovirus vaccination. At 6-9 weeks, the puppy must have what is called the "combination vaccine" without leptospirosis, which protects your puppy from a number of diseases. At 6-9 weeks, he should also have coronavirus if there is a concern for that where you live.

At age 12 weeks, your puppy will get the rabies vaccination. At 12-15 weeks, he will get Leptospirosis, Coronavirus, and Lyme disease vaccines where this applies. Vaccination requirements vary in many areas, and your vet will let you know what is required and recommended for where you live. Throughout adulthood, your dog will get Leptospirosis, Coronavirus (where needed), Lyme disease (if needed) and Rabies vaccines when needed.

Knowing about pet vaccination is important for new parents of puppies. Vaccination for pets keeps them healthy and safe. Check with your vet to learn more about vaccines for dogs in your area.

A Dog Crate Is Just One Key Necessity in Keeping Your Pet Safe While Camping

There is little doubt, camping is one of my favorite things to do in life. It replenishes the soul and rejuvenates me, making me mentally ready for the rapid pace world once again. Out of the many pet family members I have had throughout the years, my dog Danny, a Norwegian Elkhound mix, was the one who relished camping the most. He couldn't wait to go once he saw the sleeping bag hit the floor after I had rescued it from the storage closet. Danny knew it was going to be 3 days of no one but just the two of us living in the biggest back yard he ever saw. Danny and I were quite the team and nearly always inseparable. As a result, I wouldn't have ever considered going camping without him. Of course, my main concern was always making sure Danny was safe and well taken care of while we were on our trip. Over the years I developed a list of items that became my camping staples that I always made certain were taken care of, or packed, as part of our trip preparation. I found out that the best way to put my mind at ease was to plan for the "almost anything could happen contingency", and then rest in knowing that no matter what, I would be able to take care of my devoted companion. Preparation is always necessary for such a trip. Our pets depend on us to protect and keep them safe, and this list is designed to do just that.

1. Make certain all of your pet's vaccinations are current, especially the rabies. I like to do this a week prior to the trip, just to make certain there is no adverse reaction to the vaccinations.

2. Of course, it goes without saying that your pet must be completely healthy before you even think of taking him on a camping trip. If he is showing any signs of aliment or injury take him to your vet and have him fully treated and well before he makes the journey.

3. Administer flea and tick protection at least 3 days before the trip. As often as I have been camping, I have not yet found a way to experience a camping trip that is bug free. Ticks are especially common in the woods, and it seems that fleas can be found almost anywhere. So make sure you and your pet always keep the memories of the trip pleasant ones, and protect your pet from disease carried by insects.

4. Confirm your pet's collar has accurate identification tags with includes your contact information such as a 10 digit phone number, home address or e-mail address. Make sure your pet wears his tagged collar at all times while on your trip. You may want to also consider having an ID microchip placed in your pet. Any vet would be able to do this for you and it would be just one more way to make certain your pet would find his way home if you became separated.

5. You will need a pet crate, both for traveling in your vehicle, as well as when you are sleeping. With all the different sounds and smells your pet will be experiencing while in the great outdoors, it would be difficult to sleep soundly knowing you pet might try to chase after one of the night critters. A dog crate allows both you and your pet to get a good night's sleep. Of course, you want the dog crate to be placed inside of the tent, camper or cabin with you. Being able to see that you are close will remove any anxiety your pet may experience in this new and unfamiliar place. Additionally, you do not want your pet isolated or alone, making it possible prey for a coyote or other predator. Make sure you bring along familiar bedding to place inside of the crate to ensure your pet has the smells of home as he nestles down for the night.

If your pet has not slept or traveled in a pet crate prior to this trip, then you will need to spend time familiarizing your pet with the crate. Like any pet training, the key is in making it fun. Place the dog crate inside of your house with the door opened and a treat inside, and then walk away. Allow your pet to become curious and seek out the treat. Next place his blanket and maybe even a favorite toy in the crate, again, leaving the door open. You want your pet to make a positive mental association with the crate. There are a wide variety of dog crates, but for the purposes of travel and camping I would recommend either a plastic dog crate or a soft-sided dog crate. The plastic dog crate is the best solution if you are looking for durability and maximum safety. The soft-sided dog crate is usually collapsible and assembles much like a tent, offering easy portability. You'll just need to decide which best fits your needs.

6. Make sure you pack your pet's leash. The National Park Service requires all pets to be placed on a leash or inside of a crate at all times. Most private camp grounds also require pets to be restrained in the same manner. But even if your campground does not require a leash, I still suggest you use one not only as a courtesy to others, but most importantly, as a safety measure for your pet. Once a pet decides to chase after a squirrel, skunk or maybe a raccoon, you run the risk of your pet getting lost. You must also realize that once a wild animal's survival is threatened, its reaction is to act aggressively, placing your pet in danger.

7. Of course, packing food and water is essential. Don't forget to pack some of your pet's favorite treats, which will help to provide a feeling of comfort while in strange surroundings. Whether you remain at the campsite or decide to take a walk, make sure you have plenty of water for both you and your pet. If you decide to hike a trail, pack a hiking day-sack with bottled water, dog biscuits, a protein bar for yourself, and few first aid items such as antibiotic ointment, bandages, gauze and tweezers. Instead of a bulky water bowl for the trail, I always carry a freezer zip lock bag to serve as a make-shift water bowl while on the trail. You can roll the sides down, forming a rim, and the bottom will flatten as you pour water into it.

Although this may sound like a lot to consider, it will help to ensure that your camping trip is a fantastic bonding time between the two of you. My favorite times have often been while we have sat in front of the camp fire. There is nothing more serene than watching the mesmerizing flames of a campfire and taking in the smells of the outdoors with my best four-foot companion resting next to me.

National Parks and most private campgrounds require that all pets be restrained by a lease or a pet crate. Plastic dog crates and soft-sided dog crates are your best options to choose for this purpose. For more information on dog crates and kennel, and other items of comfort for you pet, please visit us at http://www.petcratesandmore.com. With more than 20 years of management experience, Sandy Stone blended her passion for animals with her business acumen and started, Pet Crates and More @ http://www.petcratesandmore.com, a business offering products aimed at providing comfort for your pets.

Preparing Pets for a Photo Portrait

We all love our pets dearly and, as such, we often treat them as if they are part of our extended family. Much as we like to get photos taken of everyone now and then, so we do the same thing where our pets are concerned. In fact, their photos take pride of place amongst our most prized possessions and people often feel closer to their pets when the kids have already flown the nest, so to speak. To this end then, getting them ready for their professionally taken photographs needs a little preparation.

Before the photo shoot

Decide on where the photos are to be taken. If the animal is more comfortable in its own surroundings, the garden is a great place to help them to relax. Some pets will feel more comfortable indoors but the lighting will be a little more complicated and this could also make them nervous.

Grooming

Ensure the pet is thoroughly washed and brushed (if appropriate) before the shoot takes place. If the pet needs its hair or fur trimmed, get this done some days in advance so that it gets over the trauma. A nervous pet will take bad photos so the idea is to make it comfortable at all times.

Have toys at the ready

Make sure the pet is fed and watered before the shoot takes place. Also take them for their toilet run if necessary so that they are completely at ease when the shoot is about to take place. Have some tasty treats and toys to give them to keep them happy as well and to reward them when they are doing the right thing.

What to wear

If the owner or family members are to be in the shot too, ensure that everyone wears plain and matching or toning colours so that the pet is the focus of the whole thing. If the pet has light fur or hair, wear darker but neutral colours to show him off to good effect. Likewise, if he has dark hair or fur, try lighter shades to give him a good backdrop. White is not really a good colour since this can make it difficult for the photographer to get the colour balance right. Rather, wear muted tones to enhance the pet.

Posing

If necessary, pose with the pet several times before the shoot day so that the animal gets used to it. Discuss with the photographer what shots are needed and take his advice on how best to get that kind of photo. If the pet is to be photographed alone, sit and calmly keep it occupied until the photographer is ready and then swiftly step back so that he can get his best shot.

Lastly...

Not all pets are comfortable in studio surroundings since they are in unfamiliar territory. Try to get the shots done in surroundings that help the pet to relax so that the photographer's duties are made that much easier. Above all, never panic because pets pick up on this and will act nervy or edgy. This is not really the photograph that anyone wants for sure.

For further information about wildlife photography, pet photography or general questions about digital photography, visit http://photopress.in/brianparkin

Professional Photos Make The Best Mementoes of Our Pets

Throughout our lives, all of us will probably have owned a pet and these lovely creatures come in many forms. They not only bring us comfort, particularly when we live alone, but they also bring us great joy too with their playful manner and adventurous spirit. When we love our pets dearly, we often treat them like extended family members and, as such, we afford them all the same things that our own families have as a matter of course.

Apart from providing them with shelter and food, we usually buy toys and playthings for them too which is where most of our enjoyment comes from. Most pets have small idiosyncrasies that bring us joy and it is possibly this behaviour that we want to capture for posterity.

There are many reasons to get a professional photograph taken of them too. One will be that we want to remember them throughout our lives and, since most of them will have a much shorter life span than us, we can keep their memory alive.

Another reason for photographing our pets is for security too. Some of these pets will be show animals that are very valuable. To keep them reasonably safe, we have photographs of them in case they go missing. This is also necessary for normal household pets too since dogs and cats do wander off from time to time. If we don't have a photo to put on a flyer, how would we advertise for their safe return?

There also landmark occasions in our lives that needs to be commemorated too. Family photos every year with the whole family being posed for the perfect shot would not be complete without the household pets. Indeed, people often take better photos when their pets are there too since they feel that the attention is not on them but on the pet itself. This makes for a very relaxed pose and a memorable photograph in most instances.

When the younger members of the family leave home, they often feel a little homesick and this is the ideal opportunity to send them some good photographs of their pets. Having something that reminds them that everything is just the same at home is often enough to keep them going until their next visit. This kind of memento is a wonderful idea for those who are going off to college and is a good way to keep them in touch with the family and their pets too.

Of course, we all take snaps of our daily lives but getting a photograph done professionally is a cool way to get something that is almost perfect. The photographer will know about the correct lighting, how to avoid red eye and which pose would look good. If the animal looks good running, he can even take a speed shot showing the dog flying over a jump etc. Not many amateurs can manage this one so try the professionals for a great shot that will show the character of the animal to perfection.

For further information about wildlife photography, pet photography or general questions about digital photography, visit http://photopress.in/brianparkin

Finding the Right Pet Photographer for You

For those who are going to have some professional photographs of their pets taken, there are some expectations that the owner of the pet will have. To them, their pet is like part of the family and as such, it should be treated that way too. To ensure that they are getting just the right photographer for the job, they usually ask a series of questions to see if this particular photographer is the right one for them. It may be a good idea to find out if the photographer has pets of his own or whether he has experience with animals. Some animals have a sixth sense when it comes to people so those who are nervous around dogs, for example, will put out some kind of vibe that the dog can feel very often. That being said, the professional will have some 'tricks' that he can employ to make the pet relax as much as possible.The professional pet photographer should also provide some of the services set out below:

1 The photographer should have his own portfolio showing the kind of work he has produced in the past. From this, the client can ascertain not only if the photographer will be suitable, but also the kinds of poses that will be utilized in his own photo shoot. This also precludes the necessity to ask for references as well.

2 A studio set up if the photograph is not going to be taken in the home or garden. Most photographers will have a place set up ready for any kind of photography, but for pets this is a little different. For example, the exotic pet may need a branch or something similar to sit on so this has to be set up well in advance.

3 A guarantee. If the photos that the photographer has taken do not come out quite as expected, he will normally offer a re-shoot so that the customer can try again. If the pet is particularly unruly, then this is very valuable offer. However, this does not mean endless photo shoots. Rather, it just gives the pet time to settle down and get used to him.

4 Thumbnails or proofs. Before the final printing is done, many photographers will produce contact sheets with all the photos from the session on. From these, the client can pick out the ones that he wants and have them enlarged.

5 A photo 'package'. Some photographers will have package deals and this will consist of a few normal sized prints with one or more enlarged shots all for one price. This is open to discussion, of course, so always work this out before the shoot takes place.

Lastly, the general idea is that both the photographer and the client feel very comfortable with each other. Discuss fully what requirements are expected, from both sides, and agree upon a package up front. If the photographer takes shots with owners and pets together, organize a studio shoot or one in the home whichever will get the best photograph in the end.

For further information about wildlife photography, pet photography or general questions about digital photography, visit http://photopress.in/brianparkin

What Are Four Pet Products That Can Help Your Aging Pet?

As dogs age, they suffer from many of the same illnesses and conditions as humans do. Therefore it makes sense to invest in pet accessories that will make your dog's aging process as comfortable as possible.

It is difficult to predict how or when a dog will show signs of aging as there are many factors to take into consideration. A few important factors include the breed of the dog followed by size and genetic makeup. As soon as you see a difference in their behavior or see them having difficulty with activities such walking or climbing stairs, you should consider pet accessories to make them more comfortable.

Arthritis and Joint Pain:

As dogs get older they are susceptible to conditions such as arthritis, hip dysplasia and other joint pain. There are two types of dog beds manufactured specifically for joint pain: a memory foam bed and an orthopedic foam bed. Ortho Bliss, a memory foam bed is one option for dogs whose mobility is impaired due to joint problems. A memory foam dog bed is ideal as it molds to the animal's body heat and weight relieving pressure points and improving circulation. A memory foam bed is not the same as an egg crate bed.

Another type of bed for older dogs is an orthopedic foam bed. Often manufactured with a cushion-like material they, too, can provide relief to a dog's painful joints. The memory foam and orthopedic foam beds should be pre-treated to repel odors, bacteria and insects. Ideally, the pet bed that you choose will feature a pillow zipper out for ease with washing, are eco-friendly and machine washable.

If you have a senior dog that is not experiencing arthritis or joint pain, or have a smaller dog, there is a wide selection of bumper dog beds, bolster beds, or donut dog beds designed with comfort in mind.

Other Accessories for Mobility:

Some dogs have difficulty climbing steps or jumping into a truck or van as their only symptom of aging. Pet ramps or pet steps provide a flat surface angled for ease of ascending to a higher location. A selection of pet ramps or pet steps come in a variety of sizes and lengths that are sturdy enough to hold larger dogs without bending. They can easily be used to help your dog get into a truck or onto furniture without having to maneuver to a higher level. Many pet ramps comes with carrying handles for ease of transporting them from one location to another and most have a safety release available.

Pet strollers:

For those who want the company of their older pet along side of them while jogging, hiking or walking a pet stroller can provide the opportunity to continue with your cardio routine and still have your pet be part of the event. Most pet strollers accommodate one or two pets at the same time, are sturdy, waterproof, safe and fold up for easy storage.

Couch covers

Older pets experience problems with frequent urination, leaky bladders or incontinence. This can especially be a problem if dogs are allowed on the furniture or sneak on the furniture while you are at work. A line of couch covers protect furniture from pet leaks, shedding hair and stains from the oil in their fur.

By visiting Best Pet Kennels, you will find a wide selection of products that will accommodate your older pet. The variety of pet products like their pet beds, strollers, steps, ramps and couch covers will help you in making the changes that he/she is going through more comfortable and headache free.

Maryann Piccini expresses her love for pets at http://www.bestpetkennels.com. She has grown up with dogs and a variety of other pets. Along with her children, they raised a Seeing Eye German Shepherd, Jenna and prepared her for the "Big Seeing Eye School". Presently, the family has a tea-cup yorkie, CoCo, whom they spoil with pet beds and the new Dogger stroller from her website. Visit often as there are always new and exciting products being added.

Traveling With Your Pet By Plane

If you love to travel and have adorable pets that you can't bear to leave at home or in a pet hotel, then, perhaps pet travel may be for you. With the rise in consumer demand for pet-friendly hotels, a lot of the top hotel chains in the U.S. offer pet-friendly rooms and some even offer treats for your pet upon check in.

Decide whether or not you will be traveling by car or by plane. Traveling by car may be a better option for larger pets or ones who are very nervous. Especially if you have a large enough car to transport them. If you have a smaller-sized pet of an even temperament, you can consider plane travel.

Many airlines offer pet travel including American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, U.S. Airlines and Virgin America, just to name a few. Their fees vary from $75 per pet to $150 per pet to fly them in the cabin. There are also less expensive options to have them travel in the cargo section, however, I would advise against this, even at the savings of a few dollars. There have been many horror stories of pets dying in cargo travel due to extreme cold or heat. It is better to pay a little more to have them up in the cabin with you where you can keep an eye on them.

Visit the vet prior to travel, this is a must. Most airlines require your pet be up-to-date on their shots and have a vet see them to assure they are okay to travel. Additionally, if you have a flight that is over five hours, it is best to pick one with many stops. The pet must usually be kept enclosed in their kennel and under the seat at all times. It would help them to have breaks so they can use the restroom.

Prior to flying, check the airline website for the exact cost of in-cabin pet travel, this can usually be found on their "FAQs" section. Also, this section should tell you what size kennel is acceptable. Usually a soft kennel that allows the pet to move around is acceptable, but you have to get the exact size. Many pet stores sell airline approved kennels. Also, some airlines only allow up to five or seven pets per plane. You need to make a reservation for your pet, by calling the airline, to ensure they are accepted on the flight. If you wing it, your pet may get denied.

Let your pet eat and use the bathroom several hours before flying. Train them to stay in their kennel for an hour or more a few weeks before their flight. Also, let them get some exercise at home before flying because they may need to be still for a few hours or more.

Your vet may be able to prescribe you some calming medications or you can buy all natural herbal remedies to help your pet with the travel.

Pay your pet fee at the ticket counter before boarding. When going through security, you need to take your pet out of its kennel and place the kennel in the scanner, while you and your pet walk through the body scanner. If you have a cat, ensure your cat is calm before doing so. Some cats have been so afraid, they jumped out of their owner's arms.

Bring a small plastic bag with food and treats. Also, a small, portable tray to put some water for them, as needed. You can buy water on the plane. For your trip, bring your pet's harness, some food, toys and a portable litter box for a cat. Pack the portable litter box or have an idea of a nearby store at your destination so that you can buy one. Once on the plane, keep your pet in their kennel, under the seat in front of you at all times. You can unzip the kennel a little to pet them or give them food or water.

Hamster IQ and Hamster Mazes

Have you at one point or another tried to establish your hamsters IQ level? Well, you can do this by building a maze. This is a great way to have fun with your hamster.

Ideally, a hamster maze is a box like structure which has an open top and is characterized by very thin walls. It is made in such a way that the hamster cannot see over the wall. A critical point to consider in developing a maze is to have just one path where the hamster can use while trying to find a way through it.

Using a maze to determine the IQ of your hamster can be fun. You can do this by placing food on some strategic points and the hamster will have to look for it. It does this by using its sense of smell. In addition, by the fact that the hamster moves around the cage it becomes a form of exercise as well.

Exercise is critical to the health of your hamster. This is so more especially for bear hamsters. By doing exercises, they will be able to live longer. You need to know your hamster very well before trying out new things such as putting them in a maze.

Characterized by heavy fur, bear hamsters are very solitary creatures. Therefore, if you place them in a maze together with another hamster, there is a probability they will fight regardless of whether the hamster is male or female.

Hamster mazes can either be bought or home-made. The choice made will largely be dependent on an individual's creativity and financial situation. This is because it requires a lot of creativity to create one. Hamsters are intelligent creatures and if you don't make a good maze then you end up boring the otherwise interesting creatures.

Home-made mazes are advantageous because you can make them to the design and size that you want. In addition to this, after its use and the hamsters have mastered the maze, then there is room for reconstruction or better still a complete overhaul of the maze. Furthermore, you can customize it to fit to the size available.

Tools required to construct a maze are rather few. One of the materials needed is a big piece of a flat wood to act as the base. Then, thin pieces of plywood for the wall. Plywood is the preferred choice since it can be easily cut to fit the size of the walls. Other materials needed are a saw, hammer and nails.

You can begin construction by hammering the outer wall so a closed rectangle is formed. After this, fix in pieces of wood in the design that you wish. The width should be enough to allow passage for the hamster. Ensure that there is only one path and the walls are high enough. Glue is not very necessary as the walls can hold the pieces of wood.

Change the path as many times as you wish. Check online for various path designs available. This way you will have more fun with your hamster.

The Benefits of Using Litter Boxes

For years litter boxes have been the way that most cat owners have given their pets a private and comfortable place to do their business. These are very simply made as all they are plastic boxes that can handle cat waste. The purpose for them is so your feline has a place to go to the bathroom.

You can buy them for any number of reasons as they come ready for one cat to multiple ones. The best way to judge how to buy one is to size your cat up. If they are bigger than normal ones, then you are going to need a bigger pan to handle a cat over ten pounds. If your cat is smaller or just a kitten then all you'll need is a very small unit for them, which will be rather inexpensive.

Here are some other things to consider when purchasing one of these units:

• Multiple cats - For those of you who have multiple cats there are boxes that can accommodate them, but you may want to consider buying a few single boxes because you more than likely don't want to mix wastes together. Pet stores sell them for a few dollars more than they would a solo one.

• Liners - As pet waste can get stuck to the bottom of these pans there are liners that you can purchase to prevent this from happening. The liners are stronger than your usual garbage bag because they have to handle a lot of waste. This will eventually help eliminate odors as the liner can be changed every couple of days.

• Scooper - You're going to need a scooper. This is a small plastic like shovel that scoops up waste. They also come in a variety of sizes to accommodate the different sizes of cat. You can buy these in any variety of colors and sizes at your local pet shop. They are relatively inexpensive and accessible.

• Baking soda - One thing that you may have not known is that you can use baking soda in your litter to make it smell fresh. It is non toxic to your pets and does wonders for smells. All you have to do is throw some on top of the litter and do so every few days to keep it from smelling bad. You can buy baking soda at your local grocery store.

These are just a few things that you can do for your litter boxes at home. You don't have to live with foul odors and litter scattered throughout your home anymore when you learn how to properly gain control over your box. Hopefully this will help all of you pet owners out there. If you're in for a new pan then try one of the traditional ones.