Misrelate

Best Age to Obtain an new puppy

admin — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 18:41:28 +0000

Best Age to get Papillon or Phalene Puppies
Buyers have a lot of questions when they are looking for Papillon or Phalene puppies for sale. When is the best age to get Papillon or Phalene puppies is one of the questions.
There is a lot of controversy between breeders and other dog professionals–trainers, pet counselors and even owners–over the best age to place or sell a puppy. Some Papillon and Phalene Breeders claim that they need to keep Papillon puppies or Phalene Puppies longer than the larger breed dogs and they offer several reasons for this, some contradictory. They say Papillons or Phalenes must stay with it’s dam and littermates longer than a large breed for “socialization”, or they want to decide if Papillon or Phalene Puppies are show or pet quality, or that it is too fragile to leave earlier, or even that the new owners cannot take care of such a small puppy.
Many non-breeding animal professionals seriously dispute the need for a puppy to stay with its dam and littermates to “learn how to be a dog”. In fact, a dog is born with the natural instinct to be what it is. A puppy raised with a litter of kittens will still be a dog–still bark not meow, and still dig in the yard and chase things that run or retrieve or chew–it will not lose it’s natural instinct to act like a dog. The actual facts are–humans do not want a dog that has ’stayed with it’s dam and littermates to learn to be a dog”!! Humans do not want a pet, especially Papillon or Phalenes, that barks excessively, chews furniture and clothes, goes “potty” anywhere in the house and ignores the human voice and commands.
Instead, most pet-loving people want a Papillon or Phalene puppy that will bond to them, easy to teach to obey basic commands, likes to be with people and is relatively easy to housetrain (we never believe in house breaking) and does not bark for no reason at all. So when does this bonding start?
Nature itself starts breaking the mother-puppy bond when the puppy is fully weaned. Puppies look to those who bring food and safety to establish a new bond. This is when the human–puppy bond begins. When papillon and phalene puppies have a full set of baby teeth and can eat on their own, the dam usually will move away from the puppies more often, to avoid the sharp little teeth. This is the time a wild dog would begin to hunt for her puppies and this is when the papillon or phalene breeder becomes the primary food source for the puppy. And this age is usually around 6 weeks. Pet professionals and many who also train their own dogs, have agreed that the younger puppies train more easily and bond to new owners more closely when placed between 6 and 10 weeks of age. (there are certain legal restrictions in selling or shipping before 8 weeks in some states) After this age, Papillon or Phalene puppies slowly becomes more set in their ways and these ways become more difficult to change later in life.
Some papillon and phalene breeders claim they need to keep papillon or phalene puppies longer to determine if they are show quality-this often means they are hoping for a fault to disappear or are hoping that an expected fault does not crop up. However, there is evidence that the structure of a papillon or phalene puppy at 8 weeks old is the same structure the papillon or phalene dog will have as an adult, AND there is no way to be sure of coat and show worthiness until papillons and phalenes are 2 years old–so keeping Papillon or Phalene puppies 4 to 6 months serves no purpose for either a pet or show.
Some papillon and phalene dog breeders say that the new owners have no ability to care for so young a puppy. Yet, they will say that they love to play with new papillon or phalene puppies and see the personality emerge. We at Pixiedust feel that the new owner CAN care for a papillon or phalene puppy the same as any breeder and the new owner DESERVES to enjoy and help shape the puppy personality to fit the owner and his life schedules. Some papillon and phalene breeders have gone to the extreme of saying there is no bonding process–that Papillon or Phalene Puppies will love all people equally. There is just too much evidence from research and owners alike that completely disprove this false statement. While older Papillons or Phalenes may become “generalized” and like any owner who treats it kindly, this is NOT the same as that special bond developed between young puppies and a devoted owner. Older Papillons and Phalenes can and do become special pets, but again, this is not exactly the same as the bonding for young puppies.
There are cases where Papillon or Phalene puppies may be too tiny to place at an early age, For good breeders of Papillons and Phalenes, this should be the exception, not the rule. Any good breeder of Papillons and Phalenes should be breeding healthy, sturdy Papillon and Phalene puppies, no matter that they are a toy breed. At Pixiedust, we breed Papillons and Phalenes that can compete in agility and obedience, and still be small lap dogs. And we want all of our papillon and phalene puppies and their owners, to develop that special connection that makes for a life-long companionship between dog and owner. Written by www.pixiedustpapillons.com Include links when using this article.

About the Author

Pixiedust is a premier breeder of quality papillon and phalene dogs for pet and show. www.pixiedustpapillons.com

Are Westhighland Terriers the Right Dogs for You?

admin — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 02:10:13 +0000

You can look at westhighland terriers and know if it is the right size for your yard, home, or lifestyle, but a little more in-depth knowledge is necessary to determine if westies have the personality for you.

Westie terriers are exuberant little dogs, but owners do report that they are usually content to lie at their side throughout the day. However, once they are let outside, westies will want to run and jump and play. Like any dog, they require outside playtime every day. Westies are not dogs that perform well when left alone all day.

Some people describe them as obstinate and naughty. This is a trait of many terrier breeds, but westies dogs usually have it to a lesser degree. They are very independent, but they are also intelligent and easy to train if they handled in a firm, consistent way. Westie terriers are considered easy to housetrain, because of their natural desire to remain clean.

Most are not described as cuddlers. They are not lap dogs. However, they are extremely companionable, and want to be with you no matter what you do. You can take westie dogs just about anywhere that dogs are allowed to go.

They will bark to announce that a stranger is approaching. They make good guard dogs. They can be trained not to bark, or to bark once and then stop. Although they announce strangers, they are also extremely friendly with everybody.

Your westie terriers will get along with your children if they respect the dogs’ boundaries. One that has been poked and pulled to the point of irritation will nip or become aggressive. Some authorities on westies do not recommend the dogs for homes with children under six years of age.

West highland white terriers were bred to chase down small prey. If a cat runs away, it will chase it. Westie rescue organizations report that the terrier’s inability to tolerate cats can be a problem. Other small pets, such as rodents and birds, are not safe to run loose in a home with a westie terrier. Your westie will usually accept other dogs, although males are less likely to accept another unaltered male of any breed.

All terriers are also bred to dig prey out of the ground. They enjoy digging and will do so if they are allowed to learn the behavior when they are puppies. Older dogs that have already learned the behavior can be trained out of it.

Westie terriers’ physical needs are fairly simple. They do not shed much, but require regular brushing, and grooming every six to eight weeks. It is better to let the hard, stiff coat shed dirt and debris naturally, rather than frequent bathing.

(Disclaimer: Any information contained in this site relating to various medical, health and fitness conditions of Westies or other animals and their treatments is for informational purposes only and is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by your own veterinarian. You should not use the information contained herein for diagnosing the health of any animal. You should always consult and check with your own vet or veterinarian.)

I do hope that you have found the article of use to you.

Good health and happiness

Jeff Cuckson
webmaster@madaboutwesties.com
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Want To Know How To Have The Healthiest,
Happiest and Most Well Behaved Westie You Have Ever Dreamed Of! Then Visit NOW
http://www.madaboutwesties.com

****************************************

About the Author

By Jeff Cuckson

Author of….

“Mad About Westies!” .. How You Can Have The Healthiest, Happiest and Most Well Behaved Westie You Have Ever Dreamed Of!

“101 Kind and Positive Thoughts For Westie Owners On Rough Days!” - How to put a ray of sunshine into a Westie Owner’s dull grey day

“100 Top Westie Sites!”

“115 Travel Tips For Having a Successful Trip With Your Westie!”

Castration

admin — Sun, 04 Jan 2009 03:35:54 +0000

presented by David the Dogman

As an ardent reader of the Collins Dog Photoguide I came across this article, which I feel, might be of interest to readers.

Traffic Accidents

A traffic accident is probably the most common cause of serious injury to a cat or dog. Always approach the animal with caution, it may react aggressively because of the pain.

Move the dog as little as possible, but if you must move it, it is probably best to use a blanket, sliding it underneath the dog. Seek the assistance of another person and lift the dog gently to safety. Check for heartbeat and any haemorrhaging. Attempt to stem excessive bleeding by holding a clean pad or clean handkerchief over the wound, binding it tightly with a makeshift bandage. Call the nearest vet’s surgery to warn of your arrival.

Burns

The only recommended first aid is to clean off the offending substance and immerse the body part under cold running water for as long as possible. Seek professional advice immediately.

Heat Stroke

This occurs most commonly when a dog has been left alone on a hot day without ventilation. If your dog has not already collapsed it may be panting, vomiting or frothing at the mouth.

Remove froth and lower the dog’s temperature as soon as possible by placing or dousing the animal in cold water. Take the dog to the vet immediately where it will be treated with drugs and more cold water.

Poisoning

Signs of poisoning may include collapse, muscular twitching, vomiting, bleeding or convulsion. Do not hesitate to contact the vet. Take some of the noxious substance to the vet with you if you know what it is. If the dog has recently swallowed the poison, try to make it vomit. Salt and mustard in water will usually work quickly, or a small piece of washing soda (sodium carbonate0 pushed down the throat.

Drowning

It is a popular misconception that all dogs can swim, but this is not always the case. You must attempt to empty the dog’s lungs of water as soon as possible. You must attempt to empty the dog’s lungs of water as soon as possible. Place the dog’s head lower than its body, open its mouth and begin to pump the chest by pressing down on the ribs and releasing the pressure immediately. Repeat at five-second intervals.

Choking

Sometimes a piece of stick, bone or small rubber ball may get stuck in a dog’s throat. Your dog may be unable to breath as a result and swift action is necessary.

Open the dog’s mouth carefully and see if you can see the object. Pumping the chest, as in the case of drowning (see above) may dislodge the foreign body, get your dog to the vet as soon as possible where the object can be removed under anaesthetic.

Commitment, Firmness, but kindness.

Brought to you by: World Wide Information Outlet - http://certificate.net/wwio/, your source of FREEWare Content online.

Do you have any problems with your pet? Then why not send your problem to DAVID THE DOGMAN.

David is a Canine Behaviourist who works and lives in Marbella, Spain. Tel/Fax (00345) 2883388.
His web site is located at: http://www.thedogman.net.

David has his own radio and TV shows, and writes for many newspapers and magazines. David has been working with dogs for many years and started his career in Israel, working on the Border Police. He has been involved in all forms of training, including air sea rescue, air scent work, and has trained dogs for finding drugs. David has devoted the past 10 years to studying behaviour and the very passive approach. He does not use choke chains, check chains, or any form of aggression.

David The Dogman is available for private consultations in your home, for further details telephone; Tel; (95) 2883388

Do You Need a Website?

admin — Fri, 02 Jan 2009 21:05:39 +0000

from David the Dogman

Gather presents, boxes, paper, etc. in middle of living room floor.

Get tape back from puppy.

Remove scissors from older dog’s mouth.

Open box.

Take puppy out of box.

Remove tape from older dog’s mouth.

Take scissors away from puppy.

Put present in box.

Remove present from puppy’s mouth.

Put back in box after removing puppy from box.

Take scissors from older dog & sit on them.

Remove puppy from box & put on lid.

Take tape away from older dog.

Unroll paper.

Take puppy OFF box.

Cut paper being careful not to cut puppy’s foot or nose that is getting in the way as it “helps”.

Let puppy tear remaining paper.

Take puppy off box.

Wrap paper around box.

Remove puppy from box & take wrapping paper from its mouth.

Tell older dog to fetch the tape so he will stop stealing it.

Take scissors away from puppy.

Take tape older dog is holding.

Quickly tape one spot before taking scissors from older dog & sitting on them again.

Fend off puppy trying to steal tape & tape another spot.

Take bow from older dog.

Go get roll of wrapping paper puppy ran off with.

Take scissors from older dog who took them when you got up.

Give pen to older dog to hold so he stops licking your face.

Remove puppy from present & hurriedly slap tape on to hold the paper on.

Take now soggy bow from puppy & tape on since the sticky stuff no longer sticks.

Take pen from older dog, address tag & affix while puppy tries to eat pen.

Grab present before puppy opens it & put it away.

Clean up mess puppy & older dog made playing tug-of-war with remnants of wrapping paper.

Put away rest of wrapping supplies & tell dogs what good helpers they are.

Found on the Internet author unknown

Commitment, Firmness, but kindness.

Brought to you by: World Wide Information Outlet - http://certificate.net/wwio/, your source of FREEWare Content online.

Do you have any problems with your pet? Then why not send your problem to DAVID THE DOGMAN.

David is a Canine Behaviourist who works and lives in Marbella, Spain. Tel/Fax (00345) 2883388.
His web site is located at: http://www.thedogman.net.

David The Dogman is available for private consultations in your home, for further details telephone; Tel; (95) 2883388

Amy Dunphy

admin — Thu, 01 Jan 2009 08:39:45 +0000

Puppies need to go to the bathroom after they play, chew, drink, eat or sleep. Start by putting them on a leash and tethering them to you. That way you can be aware of them when they start sniffing the ground (usually a cue the puppy needs to go potty). Pick them up and carry them outside. When they go potty, tell them “good potty” and give a cookie as a reward. Do not let your puppy off leash until they have finished going so they get into the habit of going potty, then playing. Many puppies will want to go outside just to play if you let them off leash first.

What if my puppy has an accident?
He will. Do not punish your puppy though. If you catch your puppy in the act then clap your hands or pick them up - this will make your puppy stop going. Get him outside FAST and let him finish up out there. Reward him for going outside. Clean up the mess with petzorb which will remove the odor completely.
Do NOT rub their nose in it, swat them with a newspaper, or isolate your puppy. It will only teach them to not go in front of you.

If your puppy is going frequently in the house you are probably not supervising them enough. Watch and learn their cues. If you feel you are watching and your puppy isn’t getting it you can always have them checked for a Urinary tract infection.

If your puppy piddles when you greet them, this could be submissive urination. This would be a problem that is usually cured by ignoring the behavior and letting your puppy calm down before touching them when you first see them.

This article not only applies to puppies, but it is how you should train a dog of any age. If you can’t supervise your dog, please put them in a crate to help curb accidents. Remember, dogs go where they go most!

This can be a trying time, so have patience and you will get through it.

About the Author

Amy Dunphy, CPDT is the owner and operator of the Dog Trainer Search

7 Puppy Naming Tips

admin — Wed, 31 Dec 2008 23:44:09 +0000

You’ve picked out the perfect puppy. You spent hours on the internet, researching the right breed for you and your family. Then you went from breeder to breeder or humane society to humane society, meeting and greeting pups until you find just the right match.
Now what? He needs a name!
Over the course of its life, you will use your dog’s name more than 35,000 times. So be sure you’re picking a name you can live with and love.
With these seven simple steps, the key to finding the perfect puppy name is at your fingertips!
•Dogs understand short commands. Easy names with two or fewer syllables work well.
•Your puppy’s name shouldn’t sound like any commands. “Stacy” and “stay” are too close for comfort. Such a name will only confuse the issue.
•Remember, you’ll be using your pup’s name in public. “Boner” may be cute among your fellow fraternity members, but it won’t go over well at the veterinarian.
•Make your kids part of the decision process. Kids like it simple, too, so if calling your Champion Cavalier King Spaniel “Bootsie” works for them, consider keeping the hoity toity name strictly for AKC purposes.
•You may think it’s an honor to name your pup after you’re favorite Uncle Norbert. Naming your baby after him may keep you in the will, but naming your puppy after him won’t.
•If you’re bringing home an older dog, ideally, stick with the name it already owns. Can’t stand it because “Barney” was the first boy who broke your heart? Then stick with similar sounds when choosing a new dog name. “Barney” morphs into “Farley” easily.
•Once you’ve chosen a name, try it out for a day or so. You’ll know right away whether it’s a keeper. If not, there’s always more puppy names on your list!
Take a look around you. The world overflows with terrific ideas on what to name your pooch.
At first glance, a couple things will stand out about your new puppy. Enjoy him or her for a day or two and take these into consideration.
•Appearance. What’s your dog look like? His color, size, and personal style inspires a variety of name choices. “Stubbs” would be a great name for a dachshund pup. Or you may call a cream colored cock-a-poo “Buffy.”
•Personality. Given a couple of days, your new dog’s personality will really shine through. Try “Cuddles” for the sweet little guy who loves to get cozy or “Puddles” for the pooch who can’t seem to find the doggie door.
If you want to go beyond the basics, many famous dog names or foreign dog names can fit the bill. Consider these favorite puppy names when making your decision.•Celebrity puppy names. Today, pooches have more celebrity following than their famous owners. Chew on “Lola,” a name used by both Hilary Duff and the Osbournes.
•TV dogs. “Scooby” and “Astro” come to mind if you want to honor a famous TV pup.
•Movie dogs. Cool movies and cool dog names seem to go hand in hand. Cool Hand Luke’s “Blue” would be a fitting label for a variety of dogs. Or try “Bodie,” from the weeper Steel Magnolias.
•Comic dogs. “Snoopy” will always be a favorite, but also consider “Daisy” or “Odie.”
•German dog names. For starters, try out “Fritz” or “Kaiser.”
•Irish dog names. “Finn” fits well for any pup, as does “Murphy,” which just happens to mean “hound of the sea.”
•French puppy names. “Pierre” and “Gigi” are top contenders for any dog, especially those with a little oo-la-la in their genes.
The choices are endless. However, with these simple tips and some thought, before long, you’ll have found the perfect puppy name!

About the Author

Want to find a puppy name? The author, Jennifer McVey, uses her free time searching for common and not-so-common names for your canine friends. As webmistress of www.favorite-puppy-names.com, she delivers a comprehensive dogs name list along with great naming tips to help make the puppy naming process easy and fun!

5 Tips For Feeding A Happy, Healthy Dog

admin — Wed, 31 Dec 2008 21:17:16 +0000

5 Tips For Feeding A Happy, Healthy Dog
by Mark Eckenrode

Do you really know all there is to know about your canine companion’s nutritional needs? Many pet owners think they’re doing what’s best for their dogs when it comes to food, but in reality they rely on pure instinct more than science. Nutrition isn’t a guessing game, even when it comes to your pooch. Think about it - if you were left to feed yourself based only on what you craved and had no knowledge of what your body needs to function, would you be eating 5 servings of fruit and veggies or would you head straight for the Ding Dong case at the market?

1. Cover all of the bases.

A dog’s diet can be as complex as any human’s (including yours!), and it’s absolutely essential that you, as an owner, hit all of the vital nutritional bases. A deficiency of certain vitamins and nutrients can lead to upset tummies, overly dry or oily skin, brittle bones, weight issues, and, in some of the worst cases, death. A balanced and proper diet is the building block of your dog’s overall health - if he doesn’t get the right blend of nutrients, the most impeccable care otherwise won’t mean a thing. But with the right diet, his defenses against disease and disorders are infinitely stronger than a dog whose owner hasn’t put much thought into an eating plan.

2. Mix it up!

For the most part, pre-packaged food will help you cover all of the major nutritional requirements a healthy, fairly young dog has. This where many owners trip up simply because of the ease of the decision. Most think that the major choice is between dry and moist food, when in reality the best diet you can provide your dog is one varied in ingredients, textures, and nutritional value. Dogs, of course, are carnivores, and that instinct remains in their blood to this day. They continue to hunt prey (poor Kitty), love sausage-flavored treats, and adore the great crunch they get when chowing down on a bone. Those varied elements should give you a little bit of insight into how diverse your dog’s diet can be.

3. Move beyond meat.

Building some portion of his diet from meat gives you many of the crucial nutrients he needs for energy and growth, but he also needs fiber and carbohydrates to aid in digestion and stability. You could throw down a bowl of dry food every day and maybe give him a “treat” of moist food once a month, but how would you like it if the tables were turned and he insisted on feeding you pancakes every day for the rest of your life? Not such a sunny outlook, is it?

4. Make it a real meal.

Listen, nobody ever said you had to rely on a bag or can of food to feed your dog. You cook for your family all the time. Doesn’t your dog deserve similar treatment? Most owners say they’d love to cook for their pups but just don’t know where to start, and that’s where I come in. Now you can help fulfill all of your dog’s nutritional needs as well as his taste desires with just one quick flip through my new book, 180 Delicious Gourmet Dog Recipes. I know, I know, you’re busy, and there’s barely time to cook your family a proper meal. That’s why you’ll love this book - in addition to covering all of the usual recipes like traditional dog chow and cookies, I’ve created several that are healthy and delicious enough for you, your dog, and your family. Being skeptical is natural; after all, I never dreamed I’d come up with recipes I could easily share with my dogs! But how can you pass up recipes like biscotti, muffins, omelettes, dinner mints, and even sushi?

5. Give him some green.

Your dog needs a well-balanced diet, and the best way to accomplish that is through a wide variety of ingredients. Did you know that many dogs love veggies? In fact, if your dog likes to nibble on grass, he may appreciate some of the veggie-oriented recipes in the cookbook. Give it a shot and see what you - and your dog - think. After all, the worst that could happen is an improvement in your pooch’s health!

The only set rule in feeding your pup is to make sure his meals satisfy the unique nutritional requirements any dog has. You don’t have to stick to the bag or the can, and you don’t have to spend hours slaving away in the kitchen. Making dishes for your dog can be a family event, and nothing expresses gratitude better than a big, sloppy, wet kiss. “180 Delicious Gourmet Dog Food Recipes” features a huge array of delectable treats made to please any pup… but you’ll be amazed at how many you can eat, too! It’s a great starting point for any well-rounded nutritional plan for your dog. You’ll both be happy you made the investment!

–
Mark Eckenrode is a lover of dogs, his own is named Ryker. Mark is also the creator of an amazing website that offers free step-by-step tips on how to spoil your dog, cook up delicious dog recipes, insights into health, and communicating with your dog…
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
“Finally! A Quick and Easy Way For YOU to Learn Exactly What Your Dog is Looking For… Without Being a Vet, Visiting an Animal Shrink, or Paying Outrageous Prices for Dog Toys!”

Click Here => http://www.DogMatters.com
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About the Author

Mark Eckenrode is a lover of dogs, his own is named Ryker. Mark is also the creator of an amazing website that offers free step-by-step tips on how to spoil your dog, cook up delicious dog recipes, insights into health, and communicating with your dog…
http://www.DogMatters.com

3 Tips For Dealing With Dog Emergencies

admin — Mon, 29 Dec 2008 19:05:35 +0000

Have you ever thought about what you need to do should your dog - or another dog - ever suffer a serious, life-threatening injury? What if they have a severe allergy to an insect bite or a bee sting? It’s great to know your vet’s phone number, but what if something happens during off hours? What if you don’t know where the closest emergency animal clinic is located?

Augh! Enough with the questions already, right? Any emergency is stressful and scary, and one involving that furry little four-legged member of your family is no exception. The toughest of owners can be instantly reduced to helpless balls of mush if something’s wrong with their dogs and they can’t figure out what to do.

1. Preparation is key.

The key to getting through a veterinary emergency is preparation. You may think you have that covered with a first aid kit and having the phone number to your vet handy, but what if there isn’t enough time to move your dog? You need to be well-versed in some of the more common animal emergencies just in case a situation ever arises. And hey, if a situation never arises, you’ll still feel more confident knowing that you have the ability to deal with one.

2. Know how to care for wounds.

Did you know that you shouldn’t use hydrogen peroxide on a bleeding wound? Nope. It slows clotting to the area, which means your dog could actually lose more blood than he would if you didn’t use the peroxide at all. In fact, the best way to treat a deep, severely bleeding wound is to apply a clean cloth and hold it in place for five minutes, then tape the cloth to the wound. That original cloth should never be removed - that also slows clotting - and should instead be layered with more clean cloths if blood soaks through.

3. Know what to do about poisoning.

Did you know that certain varieties of toads, salamanders, newts, and other amphibians are poisonous if licked? Hey, guess who loves to hold little woodland critters in his mouth! Your dog. If you notice your pup drooling, whining, and wiping at his mouth after a trip into the forest, get him to a clean water source and rinse his mouth thoroughly. While the poison can be fatal if left in the mouth, it’s fairly easy to cleanse from the tongue and glands.

Now imagine all of the scenarios that can happen to your dog, from fractured limbs to choking and everything in between. Do you really want to risk not knowing how to handle them? You don’t have to anymore, since I’ve written “Secrets to a Healthy and Happy Pooch” book to help you learn how to cope with nearly any emergency as well as have the basis for handling all of the everyday and lifelong problems and situations you’ll face with your dog. From choosing toys to cancer and everything in between, it’s all in the book… as well as how to create the most effective first aid kit and handle the most common emergencies. Listen, even the most experienced dog owner needs a little help and advice now and then. “Secrets to a Healthy and Happy Pooch” is that constant source of help and advice.

About the Author

Gerald Njuguna is the owner of a dog lovers’ site - DogPerfection.com - http://www.dogperfection.com. If you a looking for information dealing with everything to do with dog health, dog reciepes and ways to spoil your dogs for under $10 then visit us today at http://doglover.dogperfection.com to get your free gifts.

Mount Blanc Increases in Height since 2000 as Announced by Glaciologists

admin — Mon, 29 Dec 2008 07:54:19 +0000

New elaborate Global Positioning System readings conducted on the 15-16th October have registered that Mont Blanc numbers 4810.6 m. Mont Blanc is layered by a thick icecap which has grown bigger by 2.7 m in precisely two yrs moreover more unexpectedly the mass of the ice has all but doubled up . Least ways that’s as reported by the experts.

The amount of snow and ice was measured for the first time during 2001. It measured 14700 metres cubed above 4770 meters. It equaled scarcely 13500 cubic metres in 2002 possibly ascribable to the heat wave with +ve temp as high as 5000 metres alt. Nonetheless the icecap has nearly doubled since then and now equals 23000 meters cubed.

Chamonix Mont Blanc’s esteemed near by weather man Robert Guy explained the development in the scale of the ice is among the contrary results of global warming: Snow hasn’t accumulated generally in the Alpes simply with climate change we’re seeing more warm prevailing westerly air currents that bring in rainfall lower down but during summertime this translates to dense snow that settles at higher altitude than 3700 meters elevation therefore the amount of the ice is expanding. Contrast that to the situation in winter when the snow crystals are exceedingly cold and are transferred by air currents and so don’t settle on the peak.

Chamonix town is not just renowned for Monte Bianco it is also a world renowned ski town and climbing centre with lot’s of ski deals and ski accommodation deals to be found.

Dixie Dawg

admin — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 17:30:22 +0000

I met Lisa when I was 21 years old. She was 15. Her father took us to their house. Meeting the family cats may not sound like a big deal to you, but it was to Lisa’s family. One cat was Siamese. Her name was Dusty.

Here’s what I knew about Dusty.

When Lisa was a baby, crying in her crib, Dusty tried to shut her up by biting her. This was an ancient family pet, full of pride and dignity, greatly loved by all.

Here’s what I didn’t know about Dusty.

She hated people. Lisa’s mother was her best friend in the world. Lisa and her father were tolerated. Lisa’s older brother and sister were glared at from a distance. All others were attacked on sight.

I walked into the house and sat on the sofa. Dusty entered the room and breaths were held. She crept toward me, eyeing me suspiciously. She stealthily approached like a leopard stalking an impala. She sniffed my leg. She pounced upon my lap and then she…

She lay on my leg and purred. I rubbed her head. The spectators’ fears gave way to total shock. Then they told me how hateful Dusty was.

I saw Dusty approach many visitors after that day. Without exception, she viciously attacked them. And yet, she didn’t attack me. She loved me.

“Animals are excellent judges of character,” I explained.

Dusty died several years after Lisa and I married and moved to Watha, North Carolina. Dusty was well over 20 years old.

We hadn’t been in our new house for very long before Lisa visited the local Humane Society. She saw a female Siamese cat who was the spitting image of a young Dusty, and we all know how this story ends. Lisa named the new cat Witchie.

Witchie had two rather nasty scabs wrapped around her neck, courtesy of a dog. Guess what waited for Witchie at her new home? My new puppy, Spooky. As in, he who spooks at everything. He was such a harmless little wimp, but Witchie still lived atop the highest cupboards for about a week before warming up to the little mutt. Then, well, he died. Breaking my heart and setting the stage for the real story here.

“Free puppies, Dalmatian mix.” That’s what I saw in the newspaper. I went to the house and saw six positively adorable black puppies, all fat and energetic, wrestling vigorously beneath a heat lamp in a garage.

“We had to take them from their mom because she kept trying to bite everyone who wanted one. She’s on the porch. Her name’s Molly.”

I looked to the fenced-in porch, where the barking had been non-stop since my arrival. I saw a healthy, gorgeous, angry Dalmatian.

I wanted a girl. In theory, less likely to wander out onto the highway. The biggest puppy in the litter leaped at my face and bit my nose. I checked, and she was a she. I took her home and named her Dixie.

As a pudgy little puppy, Dixie burrowed to the bottom of any bowl of canned food without stopping for air, then raised her head and sent food flying. Then she emptied the bowl, cleaned the floor, and licked the food from her face.

Dixie slept with me on every day except one, which comes later. When the alarm clock rang on that first morning, Dixie growled at it. I hit the snooze button. When it rang again, she growled again. She did this every time it rang, every day of her life. How can you not love a dog like that?

Witchie descended from the top of the kitchen cabinets to beat the pure crap out of that pudgy puppy. Well, she tried to. When Dixie got larger, Witchie returned to the kitchen cabinets for a month or so. As I watched how fast this puppy grew, finally losing her fat belly to sheer length and muscularity, I wondered when she’d stop. I’d unknowingly brought home a monster.

As an adult, Dixie weighed seventy pounds. She was built like a Rottweiler. I tried to put my shirts on her, which she did enjoy, but I could never button them around her massive neck. Her chest stretched my T-shirts more than mine did.

I thought of her as a Dalmatian wearing a tuxedo. All four paws were white. A long strip of white began on her muzzle, ran down her chin and neck, spread out across her massive chest, and ran all the way down her stomach. All her white fur was freckled with black like a Dalmatian. The rest of her was a deep, dark black.

I’ve never seen such a happy dog. She was utterly full of life and energy at all times except the early morning. Her favorite game was to run up behind me and slam her shoulders into the back of my knees, then laugh when I landed on my butt.

And yes, a dog can laugh. No sound, but I challenge you to look at that face and tell me it’s not a laugh.

One morning, I saw her walking toward my coffee cup. I thought that would be only too perfect, a dog who growls at the alarm clock and drinks coffee in the morning. So I let her do it.

The coffee was black with two Sweet’N'Lows, and hot. Dixie took a big lap of it, then made the funniest spitting noise I’ve ever heard. Then she looked at me and laughed, as if to say, “Okay, Daddy, you got me that time.”

Dixie never walked anywhere. She ran outside, she ran around the yard, and she ran back inside and chased Witchie full steam ahead. She ran up and down the stairs to be with her daddy, or to eat, or to bark at whatever was making noises outside.

She was a fantastic guard dog, with a deep mean bark and the body to back up every word. Deliverymen always parked in the driveway and honked the horn. Baptist ministers gave up on converting us. Once Dixie slipped outside, and a woman promptly leaped onto the hood of her car. Dixie wasn’t just a dog. She was a DAWG.

When Dixie saw the strange dog in her yard, a large boxer, she was not content to simply chase him away. She slammed her shoulders into his chest, then backed away and let him get up. When he ran again, she knocked him down again, four or five times. He never came back after that. I think she missed him.

I remember when I bought my first chainsaw. I had lots of dead pine trees in the yard, which often broke in heavy storms. I was cutting down a few, and I wasn’t very good at it. Dixie watched in shock as a tall pine tree fell slowly toward her plastic kennel, which was shaped like an igloo. We both knew where it would land. The igloo exploded, and she looked at me with such a pitiful, betrayed expression.

“Daddy, how could you?”

The next day, I brought home a new plastic igloo.

I remember the weekend that my cousin Clint and I moved a huge pile of dirt from the back yard to the front, with two shovels and a wheelbarrow. It solved the problem of the yard flooding, but it was hard work. His only payment was some steak and Budweiser, which I helped him eat and drink. He even cooked the steaks.

Dixie was watching us work. One of her hobbies. And, naturally, running around the yard. When she saw the bicycle pass in front of the house, way up front along the street, she took off like a shot. She didn’t bark, though. She didn’t want to scare it away.

I think that bicycle moved faster than my old truck. Clint and I fell on the ground laughing. It was all I could do to catch enough breath to whistle. One single whistle was all it ever took. Dixie came back, smiling and wagging her tail.

Meanwhile, I think of the woman on the bicycle. She was a large woman, what folks down south would call a “corn-fed woman,” simply out for a bit of exercise. She had to pass my house again to get home, since there were no other roads leading that way. I don’t know how she got home, but it wasn’t by bicycling along that road. Maybe she called someone to pick her up.

Not much of a story in the telling, perhaps, but it was hilarious to see.

After Clint and I finished our work, I turned the remains of that dirt pile out back into a garden. It was common for Dixie to run into the garden, pull out a white radish, and eat it leaves and all. She never damaged the other vegetables, though, and I’d grown far too many radishes, so that was fine with me.

I had a lot of gum trees, and she loved to eat the spiny balls that fell from them. I told a co-worker about it, and she replied, “Oh, and I’ll bet she chews tin foil too.” As a matter of fact, she did.

A few months after I adopted her, I picked up Dixie from the veterinarian after she was spayed. She was so full of drugs that she threw up in the car and passed out on the way home with a loud thump. I carried her, seventy pounds of dead weight, into the house and laid her on the floor.

At the sight of her, Witchie ran like heck toward the kitchen. Same as always. Then she realized she wasn’t being chased, and checked on Dixie to make sure she was all right. It was very touching, as well as surprising. A few hours later, Dixie woke up and growled at me. This was the one night she didn’t sleep with me. She didn’t want to climb the stairs and she was too cranky for me to bother carrying. The next night, Dixie slept with me again as if nothing had happened.

At some point, Lisa decided that Witchie and Dixie weren’t enough. She wanted another Siamese cat. I didn’t mind at all. I love animals. We wanted a boy this time, knowing that owning two female Siamese simply isn’t possible. For Christmas, we visited a Siamese breeder.

As we looked at the kittens, we agreed that we needed the meanest, toughest little monster they had. Witchie would hate him at first, and Dixie’s reaction was anybody’s guess. The whole litter looked pretty aggressive, fighting and wrestling and scratching and biting. But one kitten always ended up on top — the smallest one. It was a boy. We took him home.

When Witchie saw the new kitten, she let out a mighty howl and charged at him with fire in her eyes. Dixie quickly ran over to them. One swat of a massive paw sent Witchie reeling. While Witchie looked on in rage and utter confusion, Dixie licked the tiny kitten. He wasn’t much larger than her tongue.

Imagine a seventy-pound dog sitting on the floor. Facing her, an undersized eight-week-old kitten is standing on a coffee table. They are batting each other’s faces, him aggressively and her like a gentle giant. They’re biting, mewing and growling. Her tail is wagging. She opens her massive jaws and seems to swallow most of the kitten. Like a cartoon, the only part sticking out of her mouth is his tail. He wraps his claws around her tongue and bites down into it. Her mouth opens, and the batting and biting resume.

The kitten quickly became known as Taz. He loved to run up and down the stairs making weird wild noises like the Tasmanian Devil cartoon. Dixie was his mom, protecting him from that evil Witchie. Taz slept on my chest every night, surrounded by a big black dog paw.

Witchie wasn’t completely evil, though. Once in a while, she sniffed my hair and bit it, then climbed into my lap and purred contently. Much like Dusty, she preferred me to Lisa.

The only other person she ever purred for, and this surprised me, was Cousin Clint. She did that on his first visit. Okay, so maybe animals aren’t such excellent judges of character. (I hope Clint’s reading this.)

When Taz first arrived, the house contained several large plants. Some were two or three feet tall. Within three days, they were gone. The leaves were food and the soil provided a lovely natural litter box. By the time I discovered the effectiveness of a squirt gun, it was too late.

We quickly decided that, as long as we owned Taz, all plants would remain on the porch. As Taz is still alive and well, we obviously never kept plants in the house.

Taz also loved fish. When I say this, I’m not referring to food. I’m talking about aquariums.

Beta fish, also called Siamese fighting fish, are known for being tough, able to survive anything, so mean that you can’t put them with any other fish or else they’ll kill them. But alas, a Siamese fish is no match for a Siamese cat.

Fish Number One lived in a small tank shaped like half a sphere, mounted high on a wall between two windows. After a week or so of careful planning, Taz ran up the blinds and grabbed the fish. Then, unsure how to cope with success, he watched it flop around on the carpet. He was staring at the corpse when I got home from work.

Fish Number Two lived in an identical tank. It was mounted high up the wall on the landing between the first and second floors. Taz spent hours perched on the railing, staring at it, wondering. He never found out how to catch that fish. I found it floating in the tank, dead. I assume it died from the stress.

Taz spent hours staring at aquariums, trying to devise a way to capture the fish. Years later, I took great joy in building a tall scratching post, complete with caves, and positioning it so that he had a fine view of the fish that he could never quite reach.

Most intriguing to him was the large albino Oscar. Oscars are meat-eaters, and Taz especially loved watching my Oscar at feeding time. When the Oscar grew too large for the twenty-gallon tank, I moved it to a fifty-gallon tank. Taz sat in the empty tank daily until I finally sold it.

When Lisa and I separated, she took Taz and Witchie to Florida. At age seven or eight, Taz still looked and acted like a crazed kitten. I presume he always will. He has a special place in his heart for black dogs, because that’s what his Mom was. Big Dixie. Woof!

About the Author

Michael publishes a free weekly newsletter, WHO MOVED MY RICE?, which is dedicated to proving that you can’t eat grits with chopsticks. http://www.chinarice.org