First Coast Pet

Archive for May, 2009

One of the downsides to keeping a cat in your home has to put up with the foul odor from cat litter that will not leave on its own unless you take some help from companies that provide solutions to dealing with getting rid of the interminable odor given off by cat litter. If you thought that it is just the odor that is a problem; think again, because you also have to remove the litter by picking it up and disposing it off somewhere where the smells will not bother you. Fortunately, your work has been made easier thanks to the introduction of a product known as Flushable Cat litter.

Thank Your Lucky Stars

This products is so ready to hand that cat lovers are thanking their encouraging stars that companies have addressed the mate concerns of acquiring rid of both the litter as too the smell that comes from it. Flushable Cat Litter helps you to take out the litter from the litter box reserved for your cat and then simply flush down the fecal matter down your toilet bowl.

The main advantage to using Flushable Cat litter is that it works out to be better than using clumping clay that costs thrice the amount that this excellent products costs. Furthermore, Flushable Cat litter is finer as compared with clumping clay and you also don’t need to use too much of it to get the desired results. Even if you are not able to buy Flushable Cat litter at your neighborhood pet store you can always go online and find an online store that has some of it in stock.

There is not much difference in terms of impact on the environment though whenever you use clumping clay you would have to take the mess with you to the closest landfill and dump it there. On the other hand, were you to use Flushable Cat litter then all that you need to do is flush it down the toilet and create a little extra sewage and use up a little bit extra quantity of water.

Another good option available to cat owners is to compost the litter after the stool has been dried and removed. And, you also need to ensure, if you are going to use Flushable Cat litter, that your cat is not averse to its presence in their litter box. Some cats might not like to see the Flushable variety in their litter boxes and so will start to defecate elsewhere and so compound the problem. This means that you need to keep a close eye on how your cat reacts to the presence of the Flushable litter in her box.

The best course of action of course is to gradually and slowly introduce your cat to its Flushable Cat litter. You could begin by merge just a small come of the Flushable litter into the cat’s litter box and if all goes well at first you can then start to get ahead the amounts a bit at a time till you are able to entirely fill the litter box with the flushable miscellanea.

It pays to be thrifty in how you proceed with Using this mutually exclusive which means that it will not be a good choice to try and affluent the entire mixture of cat litter and the flushable litter straight off after the cat has eliminated. It is instead far better to wait till your cat is completely at home with the presence of Flushable litter before attempting to flush the mess away.

Of course, you need to be prepared for the eventuality that your cat refuses to use the Flushable variety and in that case you will have little option than to use clumping clay and that in turn means repeated forays to the public dumping grounds.

Most of us can readily say that our pet definitely fills a void within us. Whether our dog is our running companion and “security alarm,” or our cat is a cuddling buddy, we all love our pets. But taking care of a pet is a big responsibility, and responsibility means trying our best to supply the physical, emotional, and safety needs of our pet.

Making sure that our pets have everything they need is generally a pretty easy job. The main concerns of food, water, and shelter are taken care of, but sometimes pets require more. With our busy schedules and various things that come up, it can be easy to overlook pet furniture, which is normally seen as a frivolous display of pet pampering. Granted that some pet accessories are a bit over-the-top, but there are some items which can be important to your pet’s safety.

One item that you don’t have to contemplate is pet stairs. If you have a very small cat or dog, pet stairs are a must. This valuable mobility assistant provides your pet with the confidence to move from one height to another and allows you to be sure that they will not fall and injure themselves. Even large dogs benefit from pet stairs as they are less likely to develop bone or joint problems late in life if you take away the impact of jumping to and from furniture.

Pet beds are a great way to let your little baby know that they are comfortable for overnight stays in places away from home that may cause them stress. Their own scent and particular sleeping pattern need not be disturbed when they have their own bed to take along on the trip. Everyone can get a good night’s rest on vacations or stays away at a new place.

A pet carrier is the final piece of furniture we’re going to mention. Carriers are usually associated with small dogs, but you can in fact find large carriers (although they are more like crates, going by the size!). A pet carrier is an excellent way to practice safety when taking your pet on a trip. Not only does this give your animal a barrier in case of an accident, but it also gives him a familiar, tight space that he can feel more secure in.

You can easily find pet steps, cat litter furniture, and other pet furniture items by doing a quick search online. The Internet provides a great variety of online retailers who offer a variety of colors and styles to choose from at a much cheaper cost that most local retail stores.

Chances are you’ve already seen some dog furniture, such as dog steps or stairs, on that market. There are a great number of dog furniture choices available today that are designed specifically with the plan of making your pet happy. Even crating options have been expanded for the pet owner who wants to have the comfort of knowing their dog is not distressed while at home alone.

Dogs are very loyal creatures, so they feel a duty to be with us, especially at night, but perhaps it isn’t just protectiveness that compels them to jump onto the bed and snuggle with their owner. Unfortunately, each time your dog jumps onto and off of a bed or other piece of furniture, his bones and joints are taking the shock of the movement, which can develop painful conditions. Pet steps are an excellent way to not only keep your dog’s bones and joints from future harm, but it’s also a nice way to keep your dog from pouncing onto the bed while you sleep.

Other types of dog furniture includes pet strollers that are fashioned like beds so that your dog can sleep on the go. With the introduction of so many new breeds of small dogs and micro mini dogs, furniture is not only a way to keep your pet happy but also a safety measure. These tiny babies need furniture that supports their big personalities and lets them move about to be near you without injuring themselves.

Choosing furniture for your dog should take into consideration their personality, their height and their needs. A divided crate can be the perfect solution to allowing your puppy to learn the value of respecting your space and for house training. Some furniture for your dog is even fashioned with sensitivity to allergies and made from earth-friendly materials.

Today’s dog furniture is made not only to create a fashionable way to let your pet know you love them but to make them happy in their surroundings with special pieces of furniture designed to give them the opportunity to experience many happy times at home and when on the road.

chicken coop plans

You don’t want to forget this critical part of your chicken house plans.

Building from chicken house plans without nesting boxes is like building your own house without a bedroom.  Well, sort of.

You need nesting boxes for several reasons, the first being its importance to the chickens themselves.  The nesting box is that safe, comfortable place for the chicken to relax that is usually away from the light and in the shade.
A good rule is one nesting box for every three and up to five hens. When a hen is ready to lay an egg, she will search for that quiet, private place – something that is soothing and safe.  The nesting box fills this purpose and gives the chickens that safe, comfortable place to lay eggs.

Nesting boxes are not only beneficial to the chickens, but they are helpful for those folks who are raising chickens as well.Basically, it centralizes the area for egg production and keeps your chicken house organized.Without a nesting box, a hen will search around and lay her egg wherever she sees fit.Then you would have a real egg hunt when it was time to get eggs from your chicken house.  Another benefit for the chicken raising folks, nesting boxes makes it easier to collect the eggs and to determine freshness.You can determine the freshness of certain eggs because of the order and time you collect your eggs from the nesting boxes.

Fine, Now How Do You Make A Nesting Box?

Size is important to remember when making nesting boxes.  They need to be small enough for the chicken to feel safe and comfortable.However, you cannot make them so small that you can’t clean them.  A good sized nesting box is about one-foot square, but you can check with your local feed store or veterinarian for the breed of chickens that you are raising. 
For more on the design of the nesting boxes, read the rest of the article here for complete chicken house plans

If you are new to keeping chickens, or you want to get more chickens, building your chicken coop yourself is an excellent way to make savings. Ready made chicken coops can cost several hundred pounds and building a chicken coop is easy if you have good plans.

Your children will enjoy getting involved. Depending on the ages of your children, they will be able to help building the chicken coop by doing something: fetching and organising the materials, telling you what to do next, assembling some of the pieces or even building the entire chicken coop.

Decide at the outset what design of chicken coop would be right for you. If you only have, or are planning to get, a few hens, say around three, then a chicken ark could be a good solution.

Chicken arks can be moved each day so the chickens get fresh ground to graze, or you can leave them in one place and let the chickens out. A chicken ark is a simple triangular shape with a nest box and roosting space at one end and a run at the other. Building a chicken ark is a simple project that would take a day.

If you’re going for a larger hen house, you’ll find it takes a bit longer, but it isn’t really any more complicated. This is perfect for five or six chickens. You could even build both, so you have the chicken ark to move the hens around and to use if any of them are poorly.

If you have, or plan to have, a larger flock then you will need a bigger hen house. A pitched roof design with external nest boxes would be perfect and you could site it within a run if you are not able to let your chickens free range.

To save costs even further, source some plans that include instructions and plans for building all three types of chicken coop. Then you’re all set to really save money.

Us humans are not the only ones who suffer from allergies, dog allergies are very common and can be very debilitating for your dog. Dogs can be allergic to many things including fleas, chemicals, food ingredients, pollutants in the air and even their own fur. Finding out what is causing the allergy is better than simply doling out medication, which may have side effects. This may not be easy however, especially if your dog has multiple allergies.

The following are some dog allergy symptoms to watch for. Coughing, wheezing, a thin patchy coat, runny nose or eyes, lethargy and sneezing. How do we determine what is causing your particular dog’s allergy? And, more importantly, how do we det rid of it?

A primary cause of canine allergies is fleas. Fortunately this is easy to control. Simply buy one of the products on the market that eliminates fleas or ask your vet to recommend one. Make sure you apply it regularly as fleas can’t be eliminated by just one application.

Another common allergy in dogs can be found in their food. Dogs can be sensitive to chemicals in their food or to one or more of the ingredients. Some ingredients in dog food cause allergies more frequently than others. Among these are eggs, fish, beef, chicken, corn and wheat. Please note that corn is a serial offender and is often used in cheaper brands of dog food as a filler. Ask your vet what he recommends, or there are also hypoallergenic do foods available.

Environmental allergies – your dog may even be allergic to his own coat, especially if he has thick or long hairs. When your dog cleans himself his swallows a lot of hair and this can make the situation worse. Washing your dog once or twice a month and brushing him daily will go a long way to combat a hair and dander allergy.

Do you use chemical cleaners in your home? Dogs may be quite sensitive to these. Use natural cleaning products or those without bleach or other harsh chemicals. Another cause of allergens in the home may be mold. This can be tested for and eliminated which will improve the health of your whole family.

Dog allergy symptoms such as itchy skin can be relieved by washing your dog in water with some added oatmeal. Natural shampoos containing eucalyptus, tea tree oil or aloe vera can also provide quick, temporary relief.

Mixing some omega 3 fish oil in with your dog’s food can dramatically improve skin conditions in some dogs. Evening primrose oil can have the same effect.

Anti histamines are a rapid answer to most allergies if nothing else works. They may make you dog lethargic during the day, but are a safer option than steroids.

Dog allergy symptoms are a wake up call that all is not well with your dog’s health or environment. Finding the cause of the allergy is the hard part, but taking care of an allergic dog is relatively easy once you have identified the problem. Always ask your vet for advice if you do not know where to start.

The Siberian husky was originally bred centuries ago by the Chukchi tribes that lived in the northern area of Asia. The first purpose of the dog was for pulling sleds, and in the early 1900’s these dogs were brought to Alaska to compete in dog-sledding competitions. Many were quick to note the abilities of these rugged dogs, and when they were introduced into the rest of the United States a number of years later, their popularity rose significantly and quickly. Now this breed makes a popular family pet for many, although it is important to understand this dog and the basics of Siberian husky puppy training before bringing one of these animals into your home.

The Temperament of the Siberian Husky

The Siberian husky is a friendly dog, although not overly loyal to his particular master. While he is an intelligent dog, he can also be somewhat willful and stubborn, making dog training as a part of your Siberian husky puppy care a bit challenging at times. However, despite his independent streak, he can also be affectionate and eager to please, which means that with some patience and consistency, this dog can make a great family pet. The breed is generally very good with children, probably since the original breed that lived with the Chukchi tribes was often allowed to sleep inside the home with the children to keep them warm in the frigid winter temperatures of the area.

Preparing for your Siberian Husky

The first step in preparing for your Siberian husky puppy care is to provide a fenced yard for your dog to run in. This breed has a definite tendency to run – and will run away if let loose without the confines of a fence. It is extremely important to remember that if your dog is not within the confines of his yard, he needs to be on a leash at all times. This is for his protection as well as for your peace of mind. This dog is also an energetic and social creature that will need plenty of playtimes with his owner to keep him from getting bored. A bored dog can become a destructive one, so another important part of your Siberian husky puppy care will be to spend time each day playing with your pup.

Grooming

These dogs do tend to shed their lush and beautiful coats, so another part of your Siberian husky puppy care will be frequent brushings. Generally this can be done once or twice a week, especially during the heavy shedding seasons that occur a couple of times each year. Aside from the brushings, your Siberian husky will probably be fairly conscientious about keeping his coat clean on his own, since this breed is almost cat-like in the way they groom themselves. It is rare to have to worry about odors or parasites as part of your Siberian husky puppy care.
A Siberian husky can make a wonderful family pet and a good companion. With the basics of Siberian husky puppy care under your belt, you will be ready to bring your dog home to meet his new family.

Puppies are not all alike even if they are the same breed, and Pekingese puppy training will be easier if the owner takes care picking out the perfect Pekingese puppy.Some people think that going to a private breeder will ensure that they get a good puppy that will be easy to raise.  Puppy breeders usually have a great deal of experience with breeding and raising dogs.The ads in the newspaper for puppies do not mean that the person selling is an expert.  The breeder of puppies is the one who owns the female dog that produced the puppies.Anyone else is not a breeder.  Some of the people who are considered breeders do not know what they are doing. 

The first important step in Pekingese puppy care is buying from a breeder who knows what they are doing.  These people have the experience and knowledge to properly produce puppies.  These breeders sell puppies that they know.  They know the parents of the puppy.  These breeders always sell their puppies directly to an owner without a middle man or outlet store.  These breeders start from the beginning dog training and caring for the puppies properly.  These steps make a big difference in the later life of the dog. 

Pekingese Dog Training Starts By Making Informed Choices

Pekingese puppy care starts with choosing the gender that will best suit the owner of the puppy.  Males and females have many different characteristics that are generally true of their gender.  Puppies owners should look at these factors before choosing their puppy.  Pekingese puppy care will be easier after making the choice best for each owner.  Potential owners should not choose a puppy that shows hostility no matter how subtle to new people.These puppies may be more difficult to raise and care for when they get to their new home. 

Pekingese puppy care starts with the proper health measures.  Many puppies already have shots before they are adopted.  New owners should make sure that they have the records for these shots, and they should get the shots necessary on a schedule.  Pekingese puppy care includes feeding the puppy properly.  The proper food could make a great difference in the health of the puppy.  The veterinarian will be the best one to advise on the best food for the puppy throughout their lives.  Check with the doctor to find out the most nutritional food for the puppy.

Puppies need a different nutritional diet than that of adult dogs. Their coat, bones, organs, and teeth are still maturing. The foods they eat must have an ample supply of nutrients to support their growth. Remember the difference in energy levels there come from puppies as compared to older dogs. In order to remain energetic, they need a constant supply of foods that provide a source of vitamins, minerals, and the right kinds of fats. Further we will review four tips you can use to feed your new puppy.

#1 – Buy Commercial Brands

Many owners are tempted to prepare specific meals for their pups, but it’s usually a bad idea. Without rigorous attention to detail, it’s practically impossible to measure the right level of vitamins, fats, proteins, and other nutrients.

By contrast, commercial puppy foods are specifically formulated to provide the right blend for a puppy’s growing body. Manufacturers understand the special needs of puppies. These formulations take into account the high energy and protein requirements of puppies. As a side note, if you’re raising a large breed (for example, a Bernese Mountain Dog), visit your pet supply store to check whether they carry a breed-specific brand.

#2 – Be Consistent

In many ways, puppies are creatures of habit. Once they start eating a brand they enjoy, changing that brand – even for “variety” – isn’t normally welcome. When food is available, all dogs whether young or old will rarely pass it up. However, unless there is a compelling reason to change brands, avoid doing so. If you must switch, try to wean your pup off the old food by gradually mixing the new food in.

#3 – Set A Time And Stick To It

In the same way people normally establish certain times to eat meals, you should create a feeding schedule for your puppy. Puppies if not supervised will often times overeat. Because canine obesity is such a debilitating problem, try to encourage the right eating habits when your pup is young. Pick two or three times during which you’ll feed him. He’ll quickly come to recognize those times instinctively.

#4 – Make Drinking Water Available

Puppies need water just like people and some breeds require more than others. Even if your pup doesn’t normally drink a lot of water while eating his meals, you should make sure he has the option available. Puppies are constantly on the move and utilize more energy than the average adult dog. That means he’ll be drinking more water to keep hydrated. Provide him with all he needs.

It’s not difficult to design an easy feeding plan for your pup. Invest in a high-quality commercial brand, avoid switching it, pick feeding times and don’t deviate from them, and give your puppy all the water he wants. You can add all natural dog treats or dog chews as a special bonus for your dog as well. If you follow those guidelines, your pup should grow up to be a healthy, happy adult dog.

Dogs are man’s best friend. Like children, dogs are to be taken cared for just like people are. It takes a lot of responsibility to take care of your pooch. The proper dog breed care must be applied to your pet so he or she remains to be healthy and free of any diseases. Dogs are faithful to their human owners. It takes a lot of responsibility to take care of your pooch. In return, we must provide them with the appropriate dog breed care essentials.

We should provide them healthy food, water, exercise and veterinary care like vaccinations. Reading books for your dog breed care information and health tips are useful for dog owners who need more education in maintaining a pet. While dogs offer unconditional love to their owners, the owners themselves must show their dogs how much they care for them.

General Day To Day Dog Care Needs

The basic everyday need of a dog is obviously food. As an owner, one must feed the dog regularly with healthy food that is high in protein. Grooming is another part of proper dog care. Bathing your dog regularly relieves them of fleas and ticks. Bathing your dog once a week will help reduce them smelling. Grooming your dog gives you the bonding between owner and pet; and this can also emphasize your authority towards him. Brushing the dog’s fur is relaxing in their part, they enjoy the strokes of the brush on their hair as you do it slowly.

Dogs should have vitamins too. Vitamin E can cure skin ailments. To cure to cure dry skin and any other skin ailments use vitamin E oil. You can save some money if you try conventional and natural ways in giving the right dog care. Acidophilus in yogurt is not only good for humans but for dogs as well. Consult with the veterinarian first if you plan on doing this because there are some factors that may harm them.

The Dog Breed Care Supplies

Some breed may require special supplies to maintain their fur or health in general but general dog breed care provisions are classified as functional, basic and pampering. The fundamental dog supplies comprise of dog leashes, grooming kits, sleeping pads, dog house and most especially, food. The practical but functional dog materials consist of doors, fences, and gates. To indulge your dog create a papering kit that contains toys, massage oils and treats for your dog.

One of the most essential basic supplies provided is dog beds. It keeps the dogs bones fit and strong. Several pet shops have supplies such as training equipment and aid to make practices much easier for your dog to follow. Some may even include dog collars which are made to punish dogs for inappropriate behavior.

Kennels are also sold in the supplies too; and they come in different shapes, sizes and colors. Choosing a good one would mean picking out something that’s spacious enough for your dogs to easily move about. For better dog care, grooming kits are available in a variety of options too. The products include shampoos, nail clippers, brush, combs, and even conditioners.