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July 27, 2009

About the Lady Finch

July 27th 2009 Posted to Pet + Animal Products, Politics News, Science Stuff

The numbers of Gouldian Finches have weakened quite rapidly during the 20th century. Their habitat has been reduced or altered. Early research pointed a parasite called air sac mite, was responsible for the decline of the Gouldian. However, this idea has been ruled out. In general, The Gouldian Finches are susceptible to diseases and viral infections. Their splendid colors mean that they are easily killed by predators. Fires are listed as the number one threat to the natural populations. The total amount of Gouldian finches all told is not low, however, because they are among the most popular pet birds, and are bred in captivity for the pet trade.

Actions have been taken and are underway to implement a recovery plan to recover and conserve its natural habitats, such as building protective fencing to prevent damage by cattle. Attempts at reintroduction have so far proved unsuccessful; it was also suggested to develop management guidelines for land-holders about appropriate land management, promoting the recovery program and Gouldian Finche preservation.

Although often bred in a colony in captivity, in the wild The Gouldian Finch is not a colony bird. However, out of the breeding time of year it gathers in flocks often a mixed flock consisting of Longtail Finches, Masked Finches and Gouldians. This is probably a defence against predation. Flocks used to consist of up to 1000″2000 individuals. During the breeding season they are usually found on rough scree slopes where vegetation is sparse. In the dry season they are more nomadic and will move to wherever there is food and water.

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June 13, 2008

Dog Crate Training: The Basics

June 13th 2008 Posted to Pet + Animal Products

Dog crate training is one of the most effective ways of modifying your pet’s elimination habits. If your puppy or new pet has decided that they want to leave puddles or other unsightly messes around your house, then taking a closer look at this method may be in order.

Dog crate training is based around the premises that most dogs will not eliminate where they sleep or rest, provided that they are given options to release elsewhere. Therefore, owners will temporarily confine their pet to a cage of some sorts, in order to change negative behaviors. However, the confinement is only one aspect of dog crate training; the other, more important aspect occurs when the dog is released from it’s cage, is brought outside to go to the bathroom, and is instantly praised.

It is important to note that this method is used only to temporarily confine your dog when you are crate training him, or when you are away from your home for shorter periods of time (i.e. going to work). This method is meant to teach your dog bladder control, helping them to learn when and where it is, and is not appropriate to do the deed.

However, dog crate training is not meant as a stopgap measure for a difficult dog; at no point should your dog EVER be locked up for an extended period of time, or the problem will only intensify.

Your pet should, at first, only be confined to his crate when you are within close range (i.e. at home, or going for a walk around the block). Other than when you go to sleep, you should allow your dog to initially take a break from the crate every hour to go to the bathroom. As soon as you open the cage, guide them outside and give them a couple of minutes to take care of themselves. If within five minutes they haven’t, gently guide them back to their cage. If your dog, however, does take care of himself outside, IMMEDIATELY provide some sort of positive reinforcement that your dog already associates with being good, such as a toy, treat, affection, long walk or something along those lines.

When starting the dog crate training, make sure to keep a diary of when your dog eats, sleeps and requires a bathroom break. Soon, you’ll see patterns to his behavior, and you can slowly stretch out the times to allow him outside of the crate for a break. For instance, if your dog needs a potty break every day when they wake up, and then again during the lunch hour, allow him to run free outside of these times, except for ONE HOUR before that time occurs. Then, put your dog back in the crate so that an accident doesn’t happen, and continue positively reinforcing the behavior. Bit by bit you’ll be able to stretch this out until after a couple of weeks, you should no longer need the crate at all.

Note however that accidents do happen. If they do, just clean it up, and don’t do anything to your dog. Just note the accident, and make sure the next day to put him in his crate an hour before the same corresponding time, and use the same methods again, until the problem is corrected.

(c) 2005 dog-training-info.com. This article may be republished as long as these bylines are included. Kevin Simmons is the webmaster of http://www.dog-training-info.com. Please visit the site for more free dog training articles. Online URL for this article: http://www.dog-training-info.com/dog-crate-training.htm

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May 27, 2008

Dental Home Care for Pets

May 27th 2008 Posted to Pet + Animal Products

Dogs and cats get plaque on their teeth just like we do! Plaque
is made of proteins (from saliva) and bacteria. If the plaque is
not removed every day the bacteria will multiply rapidly and
invade the gums around the teeth. Gingivitis, or inflammation of
the gums, results. If the plaque is still not removed the
inflammation of the gums will spread to the bone around the
teeth and cause bone loss or periodontal disease. Ultimately,
the teeth have no bony support and may become loose or even fall
out.

Fortunately, gingivitis is reversible and periodontal disease is
preventable! When plaque is removed by tooth brushing the gums
and bone around the teeth will stay healthy. If plaque is not
removed calculus or “tartar” will form when minerals from saliva
cause the plaque to harden. Once calculus is present, a
professional cleaning is needed to remove it. You can prevent
calculus from forming by removing plaque every day with tooth
brushing.

Tooth brushing should be introduced gradually. Don’t force your
pet’s mouth open. Start by just sliding your finger under the
cheek and running your finger along the teeth and gums. Do this
every day for about a week, and always praise your pet during
and afterwards, or give her a favorite toy when you are
finished. When she is used to this, begin using a soft-bristled
toothbrush and pet toothpaste. (Human toothpaste contains
foaming agents that can upset your pet’s stomach. Fluoride is
also not needed as dogs and cats don’t usually get the same kind
of cavities people do.) The paste should be pressed down into
the bristles so the pet doesn’t lick it off the brush. Start by
brushing just a few teeth at a time. Hold the toothbrush at a
45′ angle so the bristles go under the gumline. Only the outside
surfaces of the teeth need to be brushed at first. Try to use a
circular motion with the toothbrush if at all possible.

Brushing should be done at the same time every day so it becomes
part of your pet’s daily routine. Afterwards, give a reward such
as a favorite toy, a walk, or lots of praise. Most dogs and some
cats will actually learn to enjoy this daily ritual and will see
it as extra attention from their favorite person.

Chewing activity: dogs that are active chewers are less likely
to have plaque build-up. Chew toys such as Kong® toys, Plaque
Attackers®, Gumabones®, or rawhide are recommended. Hard plastic
bones, fresh bones, cow hooves, and sterilized real bones are
too hard and may cause tooth fractures. Edible treats are often
eaten too quickly to be of much benefit and may add significant
calories to the diet.

Special diets: Hill’s T/D diets, available through veterinarians
for dogs and cats, and Friskies Dental Diet for cats help reduce
plaque build-up, too. These are nutritionally complete so they
can be fed as a maintenance food or can be used as treats if
your pet is on a special diet.

The above is general veterinary information. Do not begin
any course of treatment without consulting your regular
veterinarian. All animals should be examined at least once every
12 months.

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May 17, 2008

Tips For Buying Tropical Fish

May 17th 2008 Posted to Pet + Animal Products

Before you go out and buy some tropical aquarium fish you must
take into consideration a few factors. You want to get the best
fish you can so I’m sure you’ll agree that it’s important to do
some research and learn what to look for when you go to the pet
shop to buy your fish.

I’m going to talk to you today about how to spot healthy and
colorful fish that will help you create a stunning aquarium.
Here are a few things you should look for:

1, Look for fish that come to the front of the glass when
looking in the tank. If a fish hides at the back or in ornaments
then that fish is not going to be a good buy. The fish must swim
around freely and without any problems.

2, If been fed, look for fish that are quick to feed. These fish
will grow bigger, have more color and be healthier in general.
The others that take time before starting to feed are likely to
be smaller fish that may be bullied by the others.

3, Don’t buy dark or very pale colored fish. These fish have a
risk of having disease or been under stress and might not last
long when been moved to your aquarium.

4, If buying livebearers make sure the females aren’t heavily
pregnant. These fish will become very stressed when been moved
and can often die as a result. Instead look for medium sized
females that don’t have a big round bump.

5, Ask assistance and do your research before about fish you are
going to keep together and if they are compatible. Make sure you
don’t mix peaceful fish with very aggressive fish.

6, Make sure you only buy a few fish at a time. If you buy all
your fish at once you will overstock your tank and cause ammonia
problems which could result in deaths.

Please make sure you think about these things when looking to
buy tropical fish. If you follow these six things I’m sure you
shouldn’t have many problems. For more information please check
out my blogs.

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May 10, 2008

The Best Dog Breeds For Families

May 10th 2008 Posted to Pet + Animal Products

There’s nothing quite like the family dog. It’s almost a slice of Americana. In ever cheesy fifties image of the Perfect American Family we see a nice little house with a white picket fence, Mom and Dad, two children (usually a boy and a girl), and a family pooch happily prancing around the yard. As clichéd as that image may be, the fact remains that people love dogs and some families just don’t feel right without a family dog.

When choosing a dog for a family, there are important traits to keep in mind. Some breeds of dog are wonderful for families while others simply don’t have the proper temperament to deal with family life. They may be too rough with small children, to needy of their own space to deal with the incessant coming and going of a large family, or simply too naturally aggressive to respond well to a family setting. Other breeds are just perfect fits for family life. Here are some of the best dog breeds for families.

Golden Retrievers

Originally bred as a bird dog (like most retrievers), the Golden retriever is an amazingly loyal and very protective breed. They are perfect for families that enjoy outdoor activities because they love to run, jump, and play.

Irish Setters

Irish Setters are known for their pleasant personalities and their eagerness to please humans. They were also originally bred as hunting dogs and can serve well in this capacity, but it is their aptitude for companionship that makes them a beloved family breed.

Collies

The Collie may be one of the breeds most easily associated with the qualities of a family dog due to the popularity of the Lassie television programs. Collies are characterized by a combination of intelligence and patience uncommon in other breeds.

Boxers

Boxers look large and scary and have a deep, resonating bark that makes intruders wary, but they are truly gentle, loving, and loyal dogs. Their size may make families with small children want to wait a few years before owning one, but they are a perfect family pet once the kids are a little older.

Newfoundland

Remember the dog “Hooch” from the Tom Hanks movie Turner and Hooch? This is Hooch, a big, friendly, loving pooch. They tend to slobber and drool rather excessively, but the Newfoundland is a loving and protective pet. Like the boxer, the dog’s size may be of some concern, but it will be hard to find a more loyal dog for a family than this breed.

About the Author

This article courtesy of http://www.dog-obedience-guide.net

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April 25, 2008

Rottweilers As Gentle Giants And Family Watchdogs

April 25th 2008 Posted to Pet + Animal Products

It is hard to find a dog breed that has a more conflicting temperament description than the Rottweiler. Known as a gentle giant and loving family companion on one hand and as an attack dog on the other, it is hard to decipher the true nature of the Rottweiler. The truth is, much of what a Rottweiler will become is due to ancestry and how they are raised.

This large breed weighs between 85-125 lbs and reaches a height 22″ to 27″. Their name is pronounced ROTT-why-ler. They are a powerful dog with protective instincts that will come out if they feel that their family, home or territory is being threatened, making them an excellent guard and watchdog.

Their AKC acceptable coat coloring is black with mahogany to rust markings. They markings typically include dots above their eyes and markings on their legs, paws and muzzle. Their short, straight, hard, dense and coarse coat is easy to groom. They require an occasional brushing and only need a bath when necessary.

Extremely loyal and protective of its family and property, the Rottweiler is considered one of the best watchdogs. Early socialization is not just recommended, but is necessary for children, other dogs and pets. If any of these are introduced when a Rottweiler is older, they can become aggressive and territorial. They need to be trained from when they are a puppy to help curb dominance issues. This is important for them to recognize you as the master instead of the other way around. They need regular exercise and play and need plenty of outside time. They should not be locked inside all day. When outside they need to be in a well secured yard and they should always be walked on a leash. This is imperative due to their territorial instincts. They are extremely wary of strangers. Rottweilers need firm, consistent training but should never be treated in a harsh or abusive nature. Extreme rough housing feeds into their aggressive tendencies where as a home that is calm, loving and gentle with their Rottweiler will feed into their gentle side.

The Rottweiler originated in Germany. They get their name from Rottweil in Wurttemburg which is where they were originally bred. They are descendents of the Italian Mastiffs. The Rottweiler was mainly used as a watchdog, guard dog and police dog. They faced extinction towards the end of the 19th century but were brought back due to the efforts of extensive breeding programs.

Large, powerful and protective, the Rottweiler was born to be a guard dog. Research needs to be done on their ancestry before bringing them into your home to ensure that there is not a history of aggression. This research is especially important if you are bringing them into a home with other pets or small children to make sure that your home is right for this particular breed.

Learn more about the Rottweiler or visit us online to talk about Dogs or to see Dog Pictures

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April 8, 2008

Signs of a Healthy Dog

April 08th 2008 Posted to Pet + Animal Products

It’s a universal truth that before rectifying any error or resolving any problem we need to diagnose or identify it first. To identify it we have to search the symptoms that point out to the possible causes and then go for optional strategies available to remove the very cause and get permanent solution. That’s what usually doctors do; firstly they examine the patient and try to diagnose the problem or deficiency in him. After diagnosing the problem they try to cure it by prescribing most effective remedy suited to the chemistry of patient.

In the same way here we would know how healthy our dog is and later on in other posts we would learn how to maintain our dog’s health.

To know about our dog’s health we need to examine following things in them:
Firstly, we need to examine its Head. Look whether the nose is cool and damp, gums are bright and pink, the teeth are white, clean and straight. Be sure that upper and lower teeth are not overshot or upper shot, Eyes are bright, clear, and can look straight ahead. Don’t forget to check for redness or inflammation of the third eyelid, or eyelids that roll in or outward. The ear canals should be clean and odour-free.

Secondly to know how healthy our dog is we need to examine his body.and his stomach. It should not be swollen or tight because it signifies poor diet or worm possibly the worm infestation. Heart beat should be strong and regular. The genitals should be clean and free from irritation, because any irritation in them could indicate worms, diarrhoea, or a digestive disorder. Both testicles should be present in the male. The coat should be feathery, clean, and free of mats. The proper working of these parts leads to a healthy body.

Third and the most important parts which are very important for a healthy dog are definitely the bones and muscles. Check if these are sound and well built in structure, because structure of the dog means his beauty for example gray hounds are famous for their slim structure which makes them the fastest among dogs. Look at the legs whether they are straight or not? Are the toes well arched? Can they run fast without any problem in their style of running?

Thus we have to minutely see all three main parts of the body of a dog namely; head, trunk and limbs. Sometimes it happens that people do not in fact know the signs of their dogs being healthy and so they unnecessarily bother about their puppies. Hence it is recommended to collect relevant information about dog’s health as soon as you happen to buy one of your choices.

Hi I am Huzef, I am an author plus webdesigner so for more information regarding Dog’s Training surely visit me at http://1-doghealth.blogspot.com.

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