Animal Care Pet Pests Are Back

Writen by Bill Knell

While most Garden Buffs can hardly wait for spring and summer to arrive, many pet owners fear this lovely time of year. They know it's the beginning of flea and tick season. While the exact time when these tiny pests appear en masse to torture pets and humans alike may vary, a wise Pet Owner starts to prepare for their arrival as the snow melts, flowers bloom or the temperatures start to climb.

Preparation can help avoid infestation. Flea and ticks may seem like super-pests that are able to thwart even professional efforts to get and keep them out, but they are not as tough as you might think. In most cases, people actually invite these pests on to their property and into their homes by their action or inaction. They do this by creating a flea and tick friendly environment.

I received a letter from a big city apartment dweller a few years ago. He had a small dog and lived in a clean, well-kept New York City apartment. He took stellar care of his dog, had his place professionally cleaned and always made sure that his pet avoided contact with other animals and areas likely to be infested. Despite all these precautions, his pet always ended up with fleas. Having lived in the Big Apple myself for a number of years, I knew that his problem was a common one. People who live in urban areas or clean suburban neighborhoods fail to understand how their pets get flea and tick infestations. Well, it's a lot easier than you might think.

During my days in New York City, I watched more then a few people walk their pets near trees. I mean, when a dogs gotta go, they've gotta go! The problem is that almost all trees in urban or suburban settings have grass, weeds or some other form of flora near or around them. That grass is rarely trimmed to proper standards. Fleas love tall grass because it's just a hop, skip and jump to the next animal that happens along to use the nearby tree as an animal restroom. Ticks also have a field day with these areas. Animals free and clear of these tiny pests interact with infested pets and you know the rest of the story.

There are just no shortcuts to preventing flea and tick infestation. It is all about cleanliness, vigilance and making the right choices. Providing a clean and well-kept environment for your pet is the best way to avoid infestation. Problem areas include refuse storage, lawns, trees, plants and bushes. Problem situations include contact with other animals and exposure to environments outside of your residence.

Let's begin with the garbage. Refuse areas are the perfect breeding ground for all kinds of pests. Keeping the inside and outside of garbage containers clean and making sure they are tightly covered is a step in the right direction. However, you also have to be sure that pets cannot get near or have regular contact with the containers or the area where they are kept. Pets are attracted to the smell of garbage (which you might not even be able to detect). So are other animals. Birds and various animal visitors to your property can bring unwelcome pests. These pests can end up infesting your pets. Refuse areas should be fenced off or placed outside of your pet's roaming area. Bird feeders should be placed away from areas where your pet eats, drinks or exercises.

Wild birds carry a number of tiny pests and diseases that can seriously affect the health of domesticated pets. When birds use pet water bowls to drink or bath, they can pass all kinds of health problems along to your animals. A large or concentrated number of bird droppings are also a major problem. While you cannot avoid having birds visit your yard or balcony, you can help limit their access to your pet by not going out of your way to welcome large numbers of them. Feed and water your pets inside. Avoid Bird Feeders if you have pets that eat, drink or exercise nearby. Keep pets inside when you seed your lawn.

The best way to place a NO VACANCY sign on your property when it comes to fleas and ticks is to avoid creating a pest friendly environment. Keep your lawn, trees and bushes trimmed. Use small portable gardening fences or other means of containment to keep your pet away from areas between bushes, small trees, gardens and your house. Purchase flea and tick preventive lawn sprays. These attach to your garden hose and allow the spray to be easily applied to your lawn, trees, plants and bushes. Most of these spray products are available at large pet or department stores. Outside areas should be sprayed once a month from March until October (and later if temperatures remain mild). If your pet has access to a balcony, patio, deck or garage, these areas need to be kept clean as well and may also be treated with anti-flea and tick sprays available in aerosol cans.

Dog Houses, concrete Pet Runs and containment areas can become havens for all kinds of bacteria, pests and disease. Unless you have a specific need to have these artificial areas on your property, don't bother with them. Your pet is better off without them. These kinds of areas require a huge amount of maintenance and cleaning. Even when properly maintained and cleaned, it's difficult to keep these structures free of troublesome pests.

Once you get the clean pet area thing down, you have another big hurdle to jump. Spring is the perfect time to take advantage of public picnic and park facilities. We all love to take our pets to the park and show them off. Well, fleas and ticks love that too. As pets meet and mingle, all kinds of pests and health threats rear their ugly heads to threaten your beloved pet. That is why it's smart to stay away from public areas with lots of other pets, wild animals, tall grass and poorly maintained flora.

If you've got Spring Fever, curb your enthusiasm and keep your pet safe. I just cringe when I see people bring their pets out to public areas and allow them to run all over the place unleashed. That's wrong on so many levels and it is an even bigger problem during flea and tick season. Maybe they watched too many Lassie reruns and have a vision of their dog running across a high grass meadow to save old Mister Hobbs who had a heart attack while plowing his field? Perhaps they saw Free Willy, all the sequels and want to give their pet a respite from the gated existence they endure as domesticated pets? Either way, letting your pet run free in public areas is not doing them or any one else any favors (except fleas and tick, they love you for it).

Another way to help keep your pet free of pests is by keeping the outside from coming inside. During the 1970s, everyone wanted to be Grizzly Adams. My mother loved to go walking out in the country (as long as it consisted of meadows off any one of a number of local expressways, parkways or highways). She brought all kinds of wild plants and berries into the house from those places. My favorite was the time that she decided to make Dandelion Wine, spent a couple of days collecting Dandelions and a couple of months trying to get the vile brew to taste like something someone would actually drink.

After any one of her attempts to get closer to nature, our home quickly filled with wild flora and all kinds of annoying flies, tiny flying insects and other annoying bugs that came along for the ride or were attracted by them. My Mom got really mad at me when I kept insisting that she had caused a fly with a human head to be brought into the house after collecting a bunch of wild plants and ferns from near an old research laboratory. I think the fly kept saying, "Help ME…Help ME!" The object lesson here is to keep inside plants and wild foliage brought in from the outside away from your pets. Trudging around nature and making it welcome in your dwelling can bring many tiny pests into your pet's environment. May I suggest getting your inside flora from a reputable Nursery?

Because fleas and ticks have become such a big problem, there are now a number of indoor and outdoor chemical treatments available for your pet and their environment. Given the possible repercussions of exposing a pet to any chemicals, I suggestion you ask your Veterinarian for their input on these choices before using any. They are some natural choices that produce the same result.

A natural flea repellent can be produced by cutting up a lemon, allowing it to sit in a spray bottle overnight and then spaying it liberally on your dog. Avoid their eyes, but spray behind their ears. The spray can also be used on your pet's environment. A small amount of eucalyptus oil can be added to the final rinse of your pet's bedding to help keep those tiny varmints away. Fleas hate salt and it can kill them. If your dwelling is really hopping with fleas, apply a thin layer of salt to your floor, carpet and furniture, then vacuum. You will be surprised how effective salt can be against all kinds of annoying pests. Dogs who need a flea bath can be bathed with some Lavender oil. And then there's the G-Bomb. Dogs hate garlic, but so do fleas and ticks. Garlic can be added to a nice piece of meat or chicken. When you pet sweats, they drop the G-Bomb on pests.

When it comes to fleas and ticks, they always prefer to come into a pest friendly environment. The best way to keep fleas and ticks away from your pet, your housing and yourself is by making sure that you do not put out a WELCOME sign. Keep your pet and their environment clean and well groomed. Pest proof your dwelling. Use common sense when taking your pet outside or away from home. Like poor relatives, it's much easier to keep these pests out then to make them leave once they have found a nice place to stay.

Read more about Dog Care and health tips at http://doggiestyle.billknell.com

Adopt a puppy at http://www.AzToyDogs.com or http://www.ArizonaPups.com

Author: Bill Knell
Author's Email: billknell@cox.net
Author's Website: http://www.billknell.com

Terms To Use Article: Permission is granted to use this article for free online or in print. Please add a link to or print my website address: http://www.billknell.com

The Process Of The Vaccines In Hatching Chicken Eggs

Writen by Joe Rosen

Approximately three days before the chicken is about to hatch, the egg is being put on a special vaccine machine. (The eggs are displayed there as on the trays found in the store) the round edge is faced up, and the narrow edge is faced down. From the top, toward every egg is matched a needle to be injected for each and every egg separately. The needles come down, and with the point it penetrates the shell of the egg, and the soft skin from inside as well, and the injection is been given.

It is important to know the position of the bird in the egg. The chick sits on the pointy edge of the egg, and the head is facing toward the round edge. The chick is surrounded by the inside skin of the egg, filling up the entire egg, on the top, there is a small space between the shell and the inside skin, where the needle is to be penetrated.

Since the chicks and the eggs vary in size, and also, the eggs are not positioned in the exact same position, it is very common that needle penetrates the neck of the chick. The eggs are also very commonly misplaced, meaning upside down, the pointy edge facing up. In this position the needle is being penetrated in the chick directly as blood is coming out at the point of the injection.

The same procedure is applicable to the organic chickens.

www.torayid.com

Pug Dogs Beauty Of A Different Sort

Writen by Michael Russell

Multo en Parvo - a lot of dog in a small space. This Latin phrase is often used to describe the playful clown of the dog world, the irrepressible Pug. A tiny package of bundled energy, the pug's bulldog-like stance belies his classification as a 'toy' sized breed. Even with his overtly distinctive looks, it is the pug's amazing personality that sets him apart from other breeds.

Delightfully friendly, pugs have an aesthetic quality that is uniquely their own. Their wrinkled faces, short snouts, curled tails and solid bodies have helped earn the Pug instant recognition on the street. Few breeds of dog are as distinctive as the pug; the common use of the term "pug ugly" suggests how recognizable the pug truly is. Even within the breed, however, variations on appearance exist. While some of these variations are plainly visible to the casual observer, true Pug enthusiasts will often notice the more subtle differences.

The Pug is most commonly "fawn" (sometimes referred to as apricot) in color; a shade resembling a creamy tan. Fawn pugs have black faces and a single black band running the length of their backs. Pug which are entirely black are less common than their fawn counterparts, but are hardly rare. The infrequency of silver colored pugs leads many non-enthusiasts to believe that the pug is limited in shade to fawn or black. Apart from the color of his coat, a pug may be single or double coated. Double coated pugs have both a silky outer coat and a downy undercoat. In both cases, the hair is short and the dog sheds year-round, requiring frequent brushing.

Even closer inspection of the dog will reveal either "rose" or "button" shaped ears, the latter being described as gently folded over and generally consider to be the more desirable of the two forms. Lastly, one of the most playful and recognizable features of this unique breed is his curly tail. The tail of the pug winds into a tight curl slightly to one side and over his hip. The more tightly curled the tail is, the better and the rare double curl is considered perfect. Bobbing slightly with his perky stride, the tail wags freely but only uncurls when the dog is sleeping or distressed.

Regardless of the physical specifics of the pug, it is this breed's personality that ultimately wins over so many owners. The breed engenders tremendous breed loyalty among owners. Not ranked among the more intelligent breeds, the pug is none the less lovable. His enthusiasm and eagerness to please are remarkable. Truly a lover of human company, the pug will usually insist on being as close as possible to owners, friends, or even total strangers - even becoming somewhat pushy if resisted. Of course, this quality in combination with the infrequency of his bark limits the pug's effectiveness as a watchdog. Bred as lap dogs, pugs can easily become anxious if left alone too frequently or for too long. They require considerable attention to satisfy their appetite for company. Their appetites are not limited to company however. Pugs love to eat. In fact, for many pugs, there is very little they love more. For this reason and perhaps because of their irresistible buggy eyes, it is common for pet pugs to be overweight.

A lot of dog in a small space, truly the pug has won a place in the heart of dog-lovers and casual observers alike. The unique physical characteristics are only outmatched by his childlike personality and affectionate manner. While upkeep of a pug can be challenging, the rewards seem to more than offset the extra effort.

Michael Russell Your Independent guide to Dogs

The French Bulldog

Writen by Michael Russell

The "Frenchie" as he is known to his admirers is a breed that has endeared himself because of his happy personality and distinctive appearance. In essence, he is similar to a miniature bulldog with the exception of his ears, which are large and bat-like in appearance. He has a personality that can be somewhat stubborn and spoiled, demanding attention. Fanciers say that he expects to be treated as a human child in the family. He likes nothing better than a warm lap or soft bed and being treated as a "V.I.P.".

This little dog has a short upturned nose and thus tends to snore. He can experience breathing difficulties in the heat. Eye injuries can be common since his eyes are round and protruding. His coat is quite short and he is the type of dog that should be protected when out in cold or wet weather. In appearance he is most like the larger Bulldog, except that his front is not quite as "bowed" in appearance. He should carry a good depth of chest and broadness to his front and should stand about 12 inches tall at the shoulder. The French claim to be the country of origin, but there is some disagreement to this. In the United States he is in the Non-Sporting group although in size he could be considered a member of the Toy Group.

The Frenchie is very loving and is considered a one person dog. If he is to be in a family with children he should be introduced at an early age to them. He can be encouraged to relate and respond to all members of the family but usually will pick a "favorite" that he considers belongs to him and will be a very loyal companion to that one person. This is a dog which can be clownish and delightful, he loves to play and is curious and thus can get into a lot of trouble. He is active and can be happy in the city and also on a farm, but should be a house dog. He does well on a leash and loves to go walking, but can be somewhat belligerent when he meets up with other dogs. Obedience training is a must, just because he is a small breed does not mean that he should be untrained and he has the strength to pull quite hard on a leash.

The French Bulldog is a breed which must be carefully bred as he can be one of those breeds which may only be delivered by Caesarean Section if attention is not paid to the size of the head. If a responsible breeder pays attention to this aspect the delivery can be normal. As with all the smaller breeds care must be taken that the dog is protected from over breeding. Unfortunately because a smaller breed is usually less expensive to raise it can easily become a profitable venture for unscrupulous breeders who are only in it for the money, rather than a commitment to maintaining the quality of the breed.

Michael Russell Your Independent guide to Dogs

Hypoallergenic Dogs

Writen by Jeff Cuckson

When we talk about hypoallergenic dogs, we mean that they have a less or reduced tendency to cause allergies or allergic reaction among allergy sufferers.

It has been estimated that about 10% of the US population is allergic to animals (American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology). Symptoms of the reactions can range from watery eyes to dangerous asthma attacks.

The problem is not with the pet's hair. It is the dander, or microscopic scales of dead skin (similar to, but much smaller than the dandruff on the human scalp) which pets are constantly shedding that is the cause. They are so tiny that you seldom know that they are circulating in the air or laying on the furniture and carpets because they are so small.

Here is a list of Hypoallergenic Dogs. If I have missed any I do apologize.

American Hairless Terrier
Basenji
Border Terrier
Cairn Terrier
Chinese Crested (hairless)
Havanese
Kerry Blue Terrier
Maltese
Miniature Schnauzer
Portuguese Water Dog
Shih-Tzu
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Spanish Water Dog
Standard Poodle
Standard Schnauzer
Tibetan Terrier
Toy Poodle
West Highland White Terrier
Wirehaired Fox Terrier
Yorkshire Terrier

Please remember that no dog is 100% hypoallergenic and also that allergic sufferers react differently to each separate breed of dog.

For Westhighland Terriers owners, such as myself, the news is good. They are considered good for allergy sufferers, with a relatively low dander (ranked number 7). However you need to be reminded that one person's allergies may vary greatly from another person. It is always advisable to visit the home of the dog you wish to have, before you bring it home. I hope that you found this article of use to you

Good health and happiness

(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.)

Jeff Cuckson
webmaster@madaboutwesties.com
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Silvertip Tetra

Writen by Gary Bolton

Family: Characidae

Species: Hasemania nana

Size: 5cm (2 inch)

Diet: Omnivorous

Tank levels: All

Habitat: Small streams in the San Francisco River region of Brazil

Other Name: Hasemania melanura, Hemigrammus nanus

Comments: This tetra's basic body colour of golden brown varies from pale silver in females to a deep copper in males. This fish has transparent, yellowish fins tipped with white. Females are plumper, especially when spawning. These fish are well suited in a tank that has a current, as they come from the river regions, meaning they are quite a home in an aquarium that simulates the river conditions. Nice fish and easy to keep and breed, and will accept lots of different aquarium foods.

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This fish comes from the "Tropical Fish" family species of fish. I hope you enjoyed this fish profile that I put together to help people to choose the right fish for the right aquarium tank setup you may own, or be thinking of buying in the future. If you require more information about keeping fish in general and what are the right fish to choose for your tank setups, you can always visit my site called "GB Aquarium" and see what's posted new there and also join in the discussion taking place.

http://www.garybolton.co.uk

Helping Spot Cope With Thunderphobia

Writen by Marian Brown

Spring showers may give us hope of May flowers, but could also cause the booming thunder that sends your pet running for cover. An estimated 19% of dogs suffer from what veterinarians term "thunder phobia". The phobia can range from mild anxiety, whining, frantic pacing, hiding and running away, even jumping out of windows.

Although no one knows for sure what causes some dogs to panic during storms, it is believed to be caused by a combination of noise, flash of lightning and change in barometric pressure. Some dogs even have the emotional element of having a bad experience during a storm such as a falling tree or owners' own anxiety.

Thunder phobia, like other health concerns, can best be dealt with through prevention. Assuring young dogs and puppies that everything will be alright and keeping them from developing the phobia can be key. With most dogs, the phobia, once developed, will only worsen with age.

If your dog does have thunder phobia, it is never too late to work with your pet. Holistically, desensitization (behavior modification) can work well. It takes an investment of time on the owners part to slowly introduce the thunderstorm sounds (using a tape or CD). This will normally take several weeks.

Another approach is the use of herbs and herbal-based products. Products, formulated for pets, containing chamomile are found most effective. Many of these can be given prior to the start of the storm and the calming effect will last for several hours.

If you find yourself in the middle of a storm with a distressed pet, exercise caution. Talk in a calm, reassuring voice. Flower remedies such as Bach's Rescue Remedy can be given. Some owners note almost an immediate calming of the pet.

Whatever your method, your reassurance and love is also needed. For sever cases of thunder-phobia, consult your veterinarian.

Marian Brown has been active in holistic health care for people and pets for over 15 years. She is editor of Holsitic Health News . Visit the site at http://www.hhnews.com to join our free email newsletter with more important pet tips.