Thursday, January 5, 2006

Foods For Felines

FOOD FOR FELINES

1/3 cup cottage cheese
2 tbl Bisquick
1 tbl chopped liver
1 tbl corn oil
1 Dash iodized salt

Mix all together for 1-2 delicious cat servings



FOOD FOR FELINES

1/3 cup cottage cheese
2 tbl Bisquick
1 tbl chopped liver
1 tbl corn oil
1 Dash iodized salt

Mix all together for 1-2 delicious cat servings



Cat Food : KITTY KISSES

1 Can (or bag) of cat food
Ziploc bag with the corner cut
cat nip (optional)

Put cat food and optional cat nip in A blender or food processor and mix until it looks to be like frosting.

Put the mixture into the Ziploc bag and squeeze little droppings, or "kisses" onto a cookie sheet and bake in 300 degrees F. Time depends on how big the kisses are. Small are about 15 minutes.



Cat Food : KITTY ROLL UPS

1 flour tortilla
1/8 cup chicken broth
1 cup ground chicken
1 teaspoon salt
1/8 cup of cream (low fat)
Mixing bowl
Mix up ground chicken with chicken broth inside the mixing bowl. After these are mixed, pour the chicken onto the middle of the tortilla. Add 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/8 cup of cream on top of the chicken. Now roll up only two sides of the tortilla until they reach each other. Fold the other sides on top of the rolled up sides until they touch. Serve to your cat!



Cat Food : KITTY TACO

1/2 lb. ground beef
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon corn oil
1 corn tortilla, cut into kitty-bite-size pieces
1/2 teaspoon bone meal
1/2 teaspoon brewers' yeast
1/2 teaspoon iodized salt
2 tablespoons cheddar cheese, grated

Heat skillet and start browning ground beef. When meat is half cooked, add bell pepper. Cook the mixture until onions are translucent, and the meat golden brown. On low heat, stir tomato paste, corn oil, chopped tortilla, bone meal, brewers' yeast, and salt. Stir until heated through. Cool and serve topped with grated cheese. Yields 2-3 servings.
Store unused portions in an airtight container and keep refrigerated. This may be fed to your cat once or twice a week.



Cat Food : KITTY TREATS

1-1/2 cups rolled oats
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup flour
1/2 cup tuna oil, chicken broth or beef bouillon

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Mix all ingredients into a dough. Dust hands with flour and form small, 1/2-inch thick, round biscuits. Set on greased cookie sheet. Bake 30 minutes or until biscuits are slightly browned. Cool 30 minutes before serving.

Wednesday, January 4, 2006

Food For Your Cats

Cat Food : CAT COOKIES

1 cup whole wheat flour
1 tsp catnip
1/3 cup milk
1/3 cup powdered milk
2 tbl butter or vegetable oil
1/4 cup Soy flour
1 egg
2 tbl Wheat germ
1 tbl Unsulfured molasses

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Mix dry ingredients together. Add molasses, egg, oil and milk. Roll out flat onto oiled cookie sheet and cut into small, cat bite-sized pieces.
Bake for 20 minutes and let cool. Store the cookies in a sealed container.



Cat Food : CAT CRACKERS

6 ounces of undrained tuna
1 cup cornmeal
1 cup flour
1/3 cup water

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Measure all of the ingredients into a bowl and mix thoroughly with your hands. Roll out to 1/4 inch thickness and cut into treat sized pieces. Place on a greased cookie sheet. Bake for about 20 minutes or until golden. Let cool. Give to your cat and watch them gobble it up.



Cat Food : CAT JELLY

3 cups chicken broth
4-1/2 tbl flour
1/4 cup carrots --diced into small cubes
3/4 cup minced meat (cooked) pieces of fish- optional, but it would be better to use this (COOKED)

After the chicken broth has been made, allow it too cool for around 2 minutes. Add all the flour and mix. Some flour might not dissolve but this is absolutely no problem (It will when you heat the mixture later on). Heat broth and flour mixture on high heat until a thick creamy mixture is formed. Immediately add all other ingredients and pour all contents of this meal into the cat's container. Allow it to set into jelly like substance with the carrots, minced meat and fish suspended in it. Serve to the cat.

Tips : Baking Soda Dry Shampoo

Did you know that baking soda will clean your dog or cat?
Just rub the baking soda on and be sure to rub into the coat. Let set a
few minutes and brush off! The doggy smells will be all gone, and you
don't need to get all wet!

What Every Good Dog Breeder Will Tell You

So you have decided you want a puppy? You have done all your homework to decide the breed you want and you know you have the finances, time and energy to take care of it. Next step is to find a breeder and purchase a puppy.

Be warned...purchasing a puppy from a breeder can be fraught with risks. As in any business there are those breeders who are genuine, who care for their animals and whose reputation is important to them and others, often known as backyard breeders, who are only interested in making a fast buck. It is now up to you to find a honest and reliable breeder.

Do some research before contacting any breeders. Contact the kennel club of the breeds you are interested in and request a list of their breeders. The Internet can also be a good source to find and research breeding kennels. Ask friends who have dogs of that breed where they purchased them from and if they are happy with their chosen dog.

Shows are another place where you can meet breeders and see their animals, both in a show environment and in kennels before and after the show. Just remember this is a busy time for the breeder and they may not have a lot of time to chat. Get their details, observe their animals and contact them at a less busy time.

Visit the breeders facilities before even choosing a puppy to see how the animals are cared for. Do not buy the first puppy you see. A good breeder will want to ensure you are a suitable owner just as much as you want to ensure they breed quality animals. Look for clean facilities with healthy, clean dogs that are free of parasites. The dogs should behave in a manner you would wish your future dog to behave e.g., if the majority dogs appear to be timid and afraid it is a safe bet any pups will be of a similar disposition.

Ask the breeder questions...

- How long have they been breeding dogs?
- What is the pedigree of the animal you are considering purchasing.
- Are both parents at the kennel?
- Are there veterinary certificates available for both parents and offspring?
- What screening has been done for any common health issues for the particular breed?
- What guarantee will they offer if the pup proves to have any major health issues within a short time of purchase?

The breeder should also ask you questions like...

- Do you have a house/yard suitable for the animal?
- Do you have the time to care for it?
- Are you fully aware of what is required to care for the animal?
- Will the dog be a pet or for breeding/showing?
- Do you have children and their ages?

Breeders are well within their rights to refuse to sell a pup to anyone they consider not suitable as an owner of their dogs.

A sales agreement should be signed by both parties outlining the obligations of both purchaser and seller.

The breeder will possibly offer advice on feeding, grooming, health care and equipment you may need as well as a schedule for all necessary immunizations.

A reputable breeder will also ensure you do not take your puppy home too early to ensure it gets early socialization with its siblings. A puppy removed from its litter too early may fear other dogs for the rest of its life. While six weeks is the time many puppies are taken to new homes, many breeders prefer to retain the pup until they are around nine weeks old.

Once you have collected your puppy keep in touch with the breeder as they will be a fountain of knowledge for you regarding your new dog and often like to keep track of their animals.

If you do all your homework and purchase from a reputable breeder you will have a dog that will be a wonderful part of your family for the next 12 to 15 years. Enjoy...

How to Buy a Dog From a Breeder

The first thing to decide before buying a dog is what type and size you want. Many factors are important when buying, but be sure to consider what breed is suitable for you and your family. Remember also, that different breeds may have genetic health issues to watch out for...

Larger dog breeds can be susceptible to hip-dysplasia. This is a degenerative disease that affects the hip joint. When a dog with hip-dysplasia matures, the hip joint and socket loose their ability to bear the animal’s bodyweight. They will have a hard time running, walking or even standing. The only cure for this condition is surgery.

Smaller breeds of dogs can have genetic concerns of their own. Dogs that are in the "Toy" breed category, like the Pug, the Pekinese and the Lassa Apso are susceptible to breathing problems. These dogs have a short muzzle (or nose), which does not leave much room for sinus and nasal development. This is a condition that is often times not evident in early development.

So, what should you look for when buying a dog? INFORMATION is the key word! After you decide what type of dog you want, seek out people who already own this type of dog. Maybe somebody you know already owns one? Get the word out that you are looking to buy a dog. Talk to people and gather as much information about the breed as you can. If you go to a pet store, talk with people. Pet owners love to talk about their pets.

Research the internet about your dog breed and print out whatever information you can find. Buy books and read about the bread you are interested in. Know that it is extremely important to become an educated consumer BEFORE you buy your dog from a breeder.

Finally, when you talk with dog breeders, ask any questions that come to mind. Honest dog breeders will be more than happy to talk with you and answer every question. Note the condition of dog’s environment. Are the dogs pens clean? Are the puppies well cared for? Can you see the mother and father? What type of puppy food are they being feed? Have the puppies had their shots? Reputable breeders love their animals and go to great lengths to provide a proper "home like" environment. Puppies are products of their surroundings. A good, clean environment will surely be reflected in a dog's playfulness.

Beware of breeders who are interested only in making money. They generally don't pay much attention to their dog’s emotional needs and health concerns. Also, they may in-breed their dogs and this can trigger severe health issues. AVOID THESE BREEDERS!

Some breeders may offer a 72 hour guarantee. This allows time to take your puppy to a vet for inspection. If any health issues are identified, contact the breeder and get your questions answered.

Good, honest breeders care for their dogs and it shows in their surroundings. There are no guarantees that you will always have a normal, perfect puppy, but you greatly increase the odds when you do your homework first!

Monday, January 2, 2006

Keeping Your Dog Healthy

Article by Bev Boorer

Like people, dogs need to be healthy to enjoy life. Dogs are our friends, companions and often our guardians, but since they are also totally dependent on us for their well-being, it is our responsibility to look after them properly.

One of the most prevalent 'diseases' in dogs these days is one that also affects humans. Obesity. A fat dog is an unhealthy dog and is likely to suffer from arthritis and heart failure. Remember, in the wild dogs eat fresh meat that they have killed themselves. They also eat certain types of grass and may eat wild fruits like berries if these grow in their natural habitat.

Milk, custard and cake are the worst things you can give your grown dog and, though a puppy may benefit from the calcium in milk, there are commercial milk products available that are especially formulated for a puppy's needs.

Dry dog food, or kibble as it is sometimes called, is said to have all the nutrients that your dog will need for health, but the dearer brands are often better. Dogs fed on cheaper brands may constantly chew grass to supplement whatever is missing from their diet. Tinned food can be given as a treat.
A healthy dog should have a smooth, shining coat, clear eyes and a moist nose. Its breath should not smell foul. It should be slender, though not thin enough to see its ribs sticking out. If your dog's breath is disgusting, it could be due to the tartar on its teeth. Chewing on a big bone will help to clean your dog's teeth.

Regular worming will also help to keep your pet in top condition. Shots for distemper, heartworm, parvovirus and kennel cough are a must. Kennel cough is not likely to be a problem unless the dog is kept on cement. Your vet will need to administer the shots, but you can worm the dog yourself. The tablets should be pushed down the side of the dog's mouth until he swallows. If this is too difficult, crush the tablet into some tinned dog food and offer when the dog is hungry. Watch to make sure he eats it all.

Parvovirus breaks down the digestive system and eventually affects the heart. It tends to come in outbreaks when people forget to have their animals inoculated. Symptoms include bloody stool and the animal is quickly unable to move and in obvious pain. It almost always fatal. Luckily, it is not transmitted to humans.

Symptoms of distemper include runny eyes and a dry nose. It is rather like flu in humans.

A dog with worms may have a poor appetite, and will often - though not always - look to be in poor health with a dry coat that is harsh to the touch. If your dog drags itself along the ground in a sitting position, suspect worms immediately. Worms can sometimes be seen hanging from the anal passage. The problem needs to be addressed as soon as possible, because worms are easily transmitted to humans.

Fleas, which will happily jump from dogs to humans, can be another problem. These bloodsuckers can actually kill a tiny puppy, simply through blood loss. Puppies too young to wear a flea collar may be washed in a suitable preparation from the vet. Pat it dry afterwards, or keep it in a warm place so it doesn't get cold. Always be sure to keep kennels and yard clean to reduce the flea problem. If they get out of hand, you may need to spray all bedding and surrounding areas to kill the fleas and their eggs.

If you live in a tick prone area, be sure to keep a tick collar on your dog at all times. Mark the renewal date on the calendar so you don't forget to renew it. Your pet's life may depend on it! Grass ticks cause itchy lumps that can become infected when scratched. If not removed quickly, the paralysis tick can cause death in three to five days.

If your dog seems to suddenly have weak back legs and falls over often, inspect it immediately for a tick and get it to the vet as soon as possible. Luckily, the tick vaccine works well and quickly and can save a dog that looks like it is gasping its last breath.

With attention to these few details, your pet should live a long and happy life, rewarding you with years of fun and companionship.

Basic Puppy Training

When Should You Start Training a Puppy?

It is never too soon to start training a puppy, however give your puppy as much freedom as possible until he is about 4 to 6 months of age. That does not include running amok in public places. Always keep a lead and collar on your puppy in public places where there is danger from road traffic and so on. In many countries it is against the law to allow a dog to run free, so be careful if that applies to your country.

Also be careful in parks if there are older dogs loose as they may attack a crazy pup they think is infringing in their territory. A boisterous young pup of a larger breed can also harm very young children or frail elderly people by jumping on them excitedly. Always keep your pup in sight when he's off a lead.

Plenty of exercise and fresh air is essential for a fast growing young puppy. He needs the exercise to strengthen his bones and fresh air for the development of strong lungs. Being in public places also allows him to interact with people and get used to the noises of traffic and life in general. He should be exercised daily if possible, with a side benefit being that he will sleep well and not get bored, which is the main cause of bad habits and destructive behavior seen in so many young dogs today. Another thing it prevents is shyness, which is primarily caused by isolation as a pup, although shyness is also a trait that can be inherited.

Starting Basic Puppy Training

You can start training a puppy from about 4 to 6 months of age. It is possible to train older dogs, but it's a lot harder. Don’t overdo these exercises, 10 minutes a day is adequate. You'll find that your puppy tires fairly quickly, and a tired pup won't learn anything. Be regular in your training sessions, taking him out at about the same time each day. Dress in the same shoes or jacket each training session, and the pup will soon associate those shoes or that jacket with training.

Teaching a Puppy to Heel

Walk at a steady pace with your puppy on a firm fitting collar and lead. Have him on your left side, occasionally saying the command HEEL. Each time you say HEEL, slap your thigh or the side of your leg. If your pup pulls away or gets distracted, just keep walking, he'll soon get the message and follow along. If you don't stop, he'll have to follow. As he follows you after a distraction, pat him saying GOOD DOG or GOOD BOY or GIRL. If he tries to run or pull against the lead, say a very firm HEEL! When he obeys, give him a pat and praise him and he'll soon get the message.

Teaching a Puppy to Sit

Once your puppy is heeling properly, it's time to teach him to sit. With him walking at your left side, stop, transfer the lead to your right hand and while pulling up on the collar, press down on his back end with your left hand. He will have no choice but to sit. While lifting with the collar takes weight off his front legs the motion causes the pup to want to sit, especially with your hand pressing him down. Firmly say the command SIT as you press down. Repeat this several times, praising him each time he sits. Now walk further along and repeat this exercise several more times in a 10 minute walk.




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