Many people hold the belief that every child needs a dog. Though this article is not about the benefits of dogs to children, it is about how children can help dogs. When children are young, they often express a desire to their mommies that they want to help. They want to be a big kid and help mom with the dishes, the laundry, and even taking care of the dog! Here are a few ways children can help care for the family pet.
First and foremost, it is important to know the age appropriateness of tasks for children as they are related to caring for their pets. Toddlers are often very willing to help, but partly because of their size, and mainly due to their age, they simply cannot help the way big kids can. So, how can toddlers help? They can help feed and water the dog. Simply get two plastic cups, divide your dog's dinner portion between the two cups. Take your toddler to the food bowl and show them how to pour the food into the dish. Then go ahead and do the same thing with the water. Young children love this, and they really feel like they are helping mommy! Also, if your toddler is gentle enough, you can hand them a doggie brush and they can help you groom your dog's coat. Taking the dog on walks with the stroller is also an excellent way your child can help.
For children who are still young, mainly from about 4 to 7 years of age, you can gradually increase their responsibility. Children of this age are able to pour the food and water into the dishes, they can groom the pet on their own, and they can begin helping you bathe your dog by handing you the shampoo, or by gently spraying the water over the dog as you hold him still.
Once your kids reach older ages, they are able to help in many more ways. They can clean up pet accidents in the house, they can usually (depending on your child's maturity) be responsible for feeding and watering your pooch, take him or her out to do their business in the yard, or even depending on your dog's size and temperament, bathe them as well.
Once your kids become teenagers, they should be responsible enough to feed and water the dog, take them out on walks daily, give them baths, and they may even be able to take Fido to the vet for their annual routine check-up.
It is always a joy to allow your kids to grow up with a dog. If your children express interest in helping take care of your pet, let them! Consider the age appropriateness of their tasks, and they will love it! To young children, responsibility is fun. Use this as a learning experience, and you and your children will be able to bond with the family pet as you all bond together!
About the Author:
Elise Rogers is an avid pet enthusiast who writes articles for Discount Pet Mall. Visit their site today for great savings on pet beds, raised dog bowls and dog ramps.
Thursday, November 29, 2007
How To Protect Your Pet From Being Lost Or Stolen by Melissa Turner
If you are worried about losing your pet, new technology allows for biologically safe microchips to use in the place of, or in addition to the classic dog tags. Microchips are an excellent option for a form of identification, and it is rapidly becoming popular in families throughout the country. Here are a few answers to common questions people might ask in relation to the use of these microchips.
What exactly is a microchip? A microchip is a small device that is comparable in size to a grain of rice. This device has a special identification number that helps animal shelters and local humane societies get in touch with the pet's owner.
How does this microchip work? As stated earlier, a microchip has a specific I.D. number, which allows shelters and humane societies get in touch with the pet's owner. The I.D. number is transmitted through an all-purpose handheld scanner, which relays the number to a computer screen. The handheld device transmits radio waves at a frequency of 125 kHz, which is completely safe and non-harmful to your pet. Depending on the brand of the microchip (the two most common brands are AVID® and HomeAgain™), the animal shelter or humane society will go to the registered microchip databases, and they will either contact you or the microchip company should your pet be found.
Where do they place this microchip? On cats and dogs, the microchip is placed in the fleshy part between the shoulder blades on their back. They cannot feel the microchip, and once it is in, it should give them no problems.
Could my pet have an allergic reaction to a microchip? It is highly unlikely. The microchip is made out of an outer shell of extremely tough glass, and has safe biological contents inside. Because of the way the chip is made, your pet will quickly develop connective tissue that keeps the chip in place.
How is the microchip inserted? The microchip is simply administered like a shot. Though the syringe may be slightly larger than that of a common vaccine shot, it will not hurt any more or any less. Your pet will not react any differently than they would if they were receiving a routine shot. Anesthesia is not necessary, nor is it recommended for this procedure.
What kind of animals can be microchipped? Almost any animal! The most common uses are dogs, cats, birds, horses (other livestock, such as pigs, sheep, or cows), and even fish! Many farmers or animal breeders microchip their animals as an easy form of identification; this takes the place of branding or tagging.
You never know when a natural disaster may befall your area. With hurricane Katrina and earthquakes, many animals have been misplaced and lost their homes. With the aid of a microchip, thousands of pets have been reunited with their loving families. Microchips are safe, beneficial, and the cost is definitely worth the security of knowing your pet has a chance of being found should they become lost.
About the Author:
Visit Dog-Bed.org & LVE Productions for more great content.
What exactly is a microchip? A microchip is a small device that is comparable in size to a grain of rice. This device has a special identification number that helps animal shelters and local humane societies get in touch with the pet's owner.
How does this microchip work? As stated earlier, a microchip has a specific I.D. number, which allows shelters and humane societies get in touch with the pet's owner. The I.D. number is transmitted through an all-purpose handheld scanner, which relays the number to a computer screen. The handheld device transmits radio waves at a frequency of 125 kHz, which is completely safe and non-harmful to your pet. Depending on the brand of the microchip (the two most common brands are AVID® and HomeAgain™), the animal shelter or humane society will go to the registered microchip databases, and they will either contact you or the microchip company should your pet be found.
Where do they place this microchip? On cats and dogs, the microchip is placed in the fleshy part between the shoulder blades on their back. They cannot feel the microchip, and once it is in, it should give them no problems.
Could my pet have an allergic reaction to a microchip? It is highly unlikely. The microchip is made out of an outer shell of extremely tough glass, and has safe biological contents inside. Because of the way the chip is made, your pet will quickly develop connective tissue that keeps the chip in place.
How is the microchip inserted? The microchip is simply administered like a shot. Though the syringe may be slightly larger than that of a common vaccine shot, it will not hurt any more or any less. Your pet will not react any differently than they would if they were receiving a routine shot. Anesthesia is not necessary, nor is it recommended for this procedure.
What kind of animals can be microchipped? Almost any animal! The most common uses are dogs, cats, birds, horses (other livestock, such as pigs, sheep, or cows), and even fish! Many farmers or animal breeders microchip their animals as an easy form of identification; this takes the place of branding or tagging.
You never know when a natural disaster may befall your area. With hurricane Katrina and earthquakes, many animals have been misplaced and lost their homes. With the aid of a microchip, thousands of pets have been reunited with their loving families. Microchips are safe, beneficial, and the cost is definitely worth the security of knowing your pet has a chance of being found should they become lost.
About the Author:
Visit Dog-Bed.org & LVE Productions for more great content.
The Importance Of Exercising With Your Dog This Holiday Season by Melanie McVarney
As the holidays approach, a level of apprehension continually grows in each person's mind: "how can I not gain weight this holiday season?" people ask. "How can I quickly lose weight after the holidays?"is another question that health-conscientious people have asked themselves each year.
Weight gain is not only a problem for people during the holidays. Dogs get new bones or new tasty treats and biscuits. Sometimes, dogs are even allowed table scraps so they can be a part of the family festivities. Because it is most likely cold outside, there may be a warm fire in the fireplace, or maybe the family has decided to sit down and watch TV for the day, so the family pet joins in the relaxation and leisure of the holidays.
So, what should you do? Enlist your doggie to be your exercise partner! For many people, having an exercise buddy helps them stay on track and get the exercise they know they need. This is a win-win situation. Your dog can get the exercise he wants, and you will have a companion, an accountability partner, and you may even lose a pant size or two!
Dogs are born with an inherent desire to run, play, and get exercise. Though they are often happy to sit on your lap as you relax and watch TV, if it is beautiful outside, they want to be outside as well, romping around in the fresh air and chasing after squirrels.
Before you formulate your workout plan with your dog, be sure you check with your veterinarian first. They will be able to help you decide on a program that fits your dog's current level of fitness, and you then will be able to formulate a plan that works well for both you and your dog.
So, don't wait...get started! Begin by taking your dog on two walks a day. Slowly increase the length of walking of time, as well as the pace. This way, you will be able to work up your goal fitness level. Be sure to switch up the routine some days take your dog to a park (where pets are allowed, of course) and play chase or fetch with a tennis ball or flying Frisbee. This will allow your dog to run around without a leash and they will be able to romp around freely.
Once your dog becomes accustomed to taking daily walks outdoors, they will hold you to your commitment. It is just like mealtime; you dog lets you know when it is time to eat (in this case, when it is time to exercise!). How will you be able to resist those big brown pleading puppy eyes? The whimpering that begs,"please walk with me!"is also hard to ignore. Listen to your dog; you will most likely find that taking a walk two times a day is relaxing and fun. You will get to spend time with your pet, you will probably meet other people in your neighborhood who have pets, so it is a great opportunity to get some fresh air and clear your mind.
After the holidays, choose to lose the few extra pounds you may have gained and formulate and exercise plan for you and your dog. Your pet will hold you to the routine, and you won't regret it! So, get started, and good luck!
About the Author:
Melanie McVarney writes article for many pet related sites. Her articles have been seen on sites such as: Dog-Training-Collars.org and Hunting Dog News.
Weight gain is not only a problem for people during the holidays. Dogs get new bones or new tasty treats and biscuits. Sometimes, dogs are even allowed table scraps so they can be a part of the family festivities. Because it is most likely cold outside, there may be a warm fire in the fireplace, or maybe the family has decided to sit down and watch TV for the day, so the family pet joins in the relaxation and leisure of the holidays.
So, what should you do? Enlist your doggie to be your exercise partner! For many people, having an exercise buddy helps them stay on track and get the exercise they know they need. This is a win-win situation. Your dog can get the exercise he wants, and you will have a companion, an accountability partner, and you may even lose a pant size or two!
Dogs are born with an inherent desire to run, play, and get exercise. Though they are often happy to sit on your lap as you relax and watch TV, if it is beautiful outside, they want to be outside as well, romping around in the fresh air and chasing after squirrels.
Before you formulate your workout plan with your dog, be sure you check with your veterinarian first. They will be able to help you decide on a program that fits your dog's current level of fitness, and you then will be able to formulate a plan that works well for both you and your dog.
So, don't wait...get started! Begin by taking your dog on two walks a day. Slowly increase the length of walking of time, as well as the pace. This way, you will be able to work up your goal fitness level. Be sure to switch up the routine some days take your dog to a park (where pets are allowed, of course) and play chase or fetch with a tennis ball or flying Frisbee. This will allow your dog to run around without a leash and they will be able to romp around freely.
Once your dog becomes accustomed to taking daily walks outdoors, they will hold you to your commitment. It is just like mealtime; you dog lets you know when it is time to eat (in this case, when it is time to exercise!). How will you be able to resist those big brown pleading puppy eyes? The whimpering that begs,"please walk with me!"is also hard to ignore. Listen to your dog; you will most likely find that taking a walk two times a day is relaxing and fun. You will get to spend time with your pet, you will probably meet other people in your neighborhood who have pets, so it is a great opportunity to get some fresh air and clear your mind.
After the holidays, choose to lose the few extra pounds you may have gained and formulate and exercise plan for you and your dog. Your pet will hold you to the routine, and you won't regret it! So, get started, and good luck!
About the Author:
Melanie McVarney writes article for many pet related sites. Her articles have been seen on sites such as: Dog-Training-Collars.org and Hunting Dog News.
How Pet Routines Create Healthier And Happier Pets by Ronny Sikes
Routines are helpful when you have young children; they also are helpful when you have a pet! Established routines are beneficial for many reasons: your pet's understanding of the family structure, it's health benefits, and it helps your pet fit into the family, because they are creatures of habit as well!
When you bring your new pup into the home, there are many things you need to adjust to: house training, feeding, and taking them outside to relieve themselves. However, establishing a pet routine also deserves the focus of your efforts. Before establishing a consistent pet routine, a little knowledge of dogs is helpful. A long time ago, before dogs became domestic animals, they lived in packs. In each pack there was a leader. This leader had status, and the other dogs treated him as a king. This philosophy can then be tagged on to a familial structure.
In establishing your pet's routine, it is necessary that they know you are the pack leader of the family. You will need to establish this leadership by eating first, walking into a room first, and by showing your pet that their routine fits into yours. Also use the tone of your voice to convey authority to your pet. A higher, more energized tone will encourage your dog, a low soft voice will calm you pup, and a low rough growling voice will warn your dog. They may not understand English, but they do understand body language and vocal tone. As you establish authority, your pet will happily accept their position and gladly take the daily routine you offer them. A great way to start off establishing a consistent routine for you and your pet is to start your puppy off by crate training them. This way, they will be able to become used to doing everything on your time. They know they go outside after you wake up and feed them; you go to work, come home, and take them on a long walk. You then eat dinner and then feed your dog dinner; you take them out to do their business once more, then finally put them to bed when you head to go to sleep.
Like humans, dogs are creatures of habit. They are happiest when they do the same things at the same time each day. They like taking their naps, going out into the yard or on a walk for waste elimination and some fresh air, and they like eating at the same time each day. Also, dogs like being taken of. Most dogs do not want to be the pack leader, but if they feel there is none, they will step up to the plate. Dogs are happiest when they are taken care of and when they are clearly loved.
Establishing authority to your new pet is key to creating a successful routine. As the pack leader, your pet will enjoy the daily routine you give them, and will love it! Dogs are creatures of habit, and people don't say the phrase, it's a dog's life, for nothing!
About the Author:
Please visit Pet Super Store for the guaranteed lowest prices on bird cages, dog doors and dog agility equipment.
When you bring your new pup into the home, there are many things you need to adjust to: house training, feeding, and taking them outside to relieve themselves. However, establishing a pet routine also deserves the focus of your efforts. Before establishing a consistent pet routine, a little knowledge of dogs is helpful. A long time ago, before dogs became domestic animals, they lived in packs. In each pack there was a leader. This leader had status, and the other dogs treated him as a king. This philosophy can then be tagged on to a familial structure.
In establishing your pet's routine, it is necessary that they know you are the pack leader of the family. You will need to establish this leadership by eating first, walking into a room first, and by showing your pet that their routine fits into yours. Also use the tone of your voice to convey authority to your pet. A higher, more energized tone will encourage your dog, a low soft voice will calm you pup, and a low rough growling voice will warn your dog. They may not understand English, but they do understand body language and vocal tone. As you establish authority, your pet will happily accept their position and gladly take the daily routine you offer them. A great way to start off establishing a consistent routine for you and your pet is to start your puppy off by crate training them. This way, they will be able to become used to doing everything on your time. They know they go outside after you wake up and feed them; you go to work, come home, and take them on a long walk. You then eat dinner and then feed your dog dinner; you take them out to do their business once more, then finally put them to bed when you head to go to sleep.
Like humans, dogs are creatures of habit. They are happiest when they do the same things at the same time each day. They like taking their naps, going out into the yard or on a walk for waste elimination and some fresh air, and they like eating at the same time each day. Also, dogs like being taken of. Most dogs do not want to be the pack leader, but if they feel there is none, they will step up to the plate. Dogs are happiest when they are taken care of and when they are clearly loved.
Establishing authority to your new pet is key to creating a successful routine. As the pack leader, your pet will enjoy the daily routine you give them, and will love it! Dogs are creatures of habit, and people don't say the phrase, it's a dog's life, for nothing!
About the Author:
Please visit Pet Super Store for the guaranteed lowest prices on bird cages, dog doors and dog agility equipment.
Important Tips For Dogs That Wont Eat by Melissa Turner
Pets can sometimes be finicky when it comes to mealtime; cats are especially known to be picky about their food. Sometimes your pet may have a raring appetite and may beg to be fed other times, they may simply glance at their dinner and choose to not eat. What is the cause of this inconsistent appetite? Chances are, if you have a pet with problems eating, the cause may not actually be your pet, but you.
If your pet consistently refuses to eat or eats very little, it may be a sign of illness. If your pet used to eat regularly and consistently, and now you have noticed a pattern of refusal to eat, this is cause enough to take your pet to the vet. If you have noticed other symptoms, take your pet to your local veterinary clinic to assess your pets state of health immediately.
Although people need variety and wide selections and combinations of food, cats and dogs are not built the same way. This is often a mistaken belief that people have when it comes to feeding their pet. If they give their pet different types of food each day, they are teaching their pet that they can have an opinion, thus causing them to possibly not eat and hold out for a food choice they prefer more. Dogs and cats are not built like humans. They can get all of the proper nutrients and vitamins they need from only one particular dog food. Once you realize which food your pet likes best, just stick with it. Your pet will thank you for it!
Another reason that pets may not eat could be a family member who enjoys giving the pet people snacks from the dinner table. If a dog gets pieces of people food, that may very well satisfy their hunger until the next day. So, when you try to feed your pet, they are simply not hungry because they were already fed from the table. Not only can feeding from the table ruin your pets appetite, it is also bad for them. Again, humans and animals have different nutritional needs, and human food may actually be more harmful to pets than is often realized.
Many dogs have an inherent nature to please their owners. Oftentimes when a pet eats their food, their owners praise them and show their dog that they are happy with them. Though this is fine, it can sometimes encourage dogs to overeat. Similar to humans, overeating can cause discomfort or bloating. If a pet later refuses to eat, they are simply saying they can't hold any more food and they are blocking it out in an attempt to be more comfortable.
Whatever the problem may be, it is always a good idea to visit your veterinary clinic and discuss your pets eating habits with a professional. Your vet will be able to recommend a certain dog food type, as well as defining the amount of food and how many times a day your pet should be fed. Soon, you and your pet can find something that works for the both of you. Good luck!
About the Author:
Melissa Turner writes article about various pet related topics. Her articles and information can be seen on sites such as: Dog-Bed.org, LVE Productions and Dog Training Methods.
If your pet consistently refuses to eat or eats very little, it may be a sign of illness. If your pet used to eat regularly and consistently, and now you have noticed a pattern of refusal to eat, this is cause enough to take your pet to the vet. If you have noticed other symptoms, take your pet to your local veterinary clinic to assess your pets state of health immediately.
Although people need variety and wide selections and combinations of food, cats and dogs are not built the same way. This is often a mistaken belief that people have when it comes to feeding their pet. If they give their pet different types of food each day, they are teaching their pet that they can have an opinion, thus causing them to possibly not eat and hold out for a food choice they prefer more. Dogs and cats are not built like humans. They can get all of the proper nutrients and vitamins they need from only one particular dog food. Once you realize which food your pet likes best, just stick with it. Your pet will thank you for it!
Another reason that pets may not eat could be a family member who enjoys giving the pet people snacks from the dinner table. If a dog gets pieces of people food, that may very well satisfy their hunger until the next day. So, when you try to feed your pet, they are simply not hungry because they were already fed from the table. Not only can feeding from the table ruin your pets appetite, it is also bad for them. Again, humans and animals have different nutritional needs, and human food may actually be more harmful to pets than is often realized.
Many dogs have an inherent nature to please their owners. Oftentimes when a pet eats their food, their owners praise them and show their dog that they are happy with them. Though this is fine, it can sometimes encourage dogs to overeat. Similar to humans, overeating can cause discomfort or bloating. If a pet later refuses to eat, they are simply saying they can't hold any more food and they are blocking it out in an attempt to be more comfortable.
Whatever the problem may be, it is always a good idea to visit your veterinary clinic and discuss your pets eating habits with a professional. Your vet will be able to recommend a certain dog food type, as well as defining the amount of food and how many times a day your pet should be fed. Soon, you and your pet can find something that works for the both of you. Good luck!
About the Author:
Melissa Turner writes article about various pet related topics. Her articles and information can be seen on sites such as: Dog-Bed.org, LVE Productions and Dog Training Methods.
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