http://www.onlydogbeds.net/ Dog beds and crate pads, along with dog jokes, coloring pages, videos, photos, news and more. en Copyright 2010 Sun, 14 Mar 2010 11:35:19 -0800 http://www.sixapart.com/movabletype/ http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss Stories about heroic dogs abound everywhere. Dogs are shown to be constant companions to their human owners. However, you may be surprised that their heroics extend far beyond their human counterparts. For some inspiration here are stories about heroic dogs. • The 2006 Dog of the Year award was given to Honey when she saved her owner from a violent car accident. When the SUV they were riding in rolled over, Honey's owner, Michael Bosch, found himself trapped and knew his dog was his only hope. Using what was left of his strength, he managed to release the dog, and hope that she would somehow find help. The then 5-month-old English Cocker Spaniel got the attention of a man, about a half-mile away and brought him to the scene of the accident. Rescuers concluded that had it not been for this, Bosch certainly would have died. • Many people think that dogs are only heroic toward humans, but that is certainly not so. Take the case of, Napoleon, the English bulldog who defied the poor swimming skills of his breed to swim deep out into a lake and rescue a burlap sack containing 6 abandoned kittens! While two of the kittens didn't make it, the other four were nursed back to health, leading to a hero's welcome for Napoleon back at the local adoption center. • Hero, a four-year-old Golden Retriever, was credited with saving a paralyzed man who got his wheelchair stuck in the middle of a muddy field. When Gareth Jones found he was unable to move, the former soldier's service dog was ready to answer the call, dutifully pulling the rope Jones threw to him, until the wheelchair was pulled free. • The Stillman Award for bravery was given to a Rottweiler named Eve, who helped her paraplegic owner Kathie escape from a burning, smoldering truck. Upon pulling Kathie out, Eve then proceeded to drag her to a nearby ditch, just far enough away to avoid the explosion of her vehicle. • Together with police officer James Symington, Trakr helped dig through some 30 feet of unstable debris at the World Trade Center Ground Zero site and locate the last human survivor of the attack. The dog's bravery was so celebrated that he is going to be cloned for use in other police rescue forces! • Shelby became the 45th Skippy Dog Hero of the Year for saving two adults and two children, from carbon monoxide poisoning. The dog, with her keen sense of smell, was the first to detect the rising CO levels while the rest of the family was asleep. She nudged each of them out of their sleep and refused to stop barking, scratching and whining until the family was safely outside. Luckily, each family member was treated at a nearby hospital and made a full recovery. • The 2001 "Dog Hero of the Year" honors went to Blue, an Australian Blue Heeler who saved his 85-year-old owner, Ruth Gay, from an alligator attack behind her home. Ms. Gay had fallen while walking Blue and when a nearby gator lumbered over, threatening to attack, Blue then charged into action and sparred with the gator long enough to scare it away. Happily, both Gay and Blue made full recoveries, and Blue was awarded with doggie treats, cash and a specially engraved Dog Hero food bowl. • Blue's runner up to the 2001 award was Patty, a Yellow Lab Retriever who saved her owner from drowning while on a winter duck hunting excursion. After Ray Fogg's boat capsized and dumped both of them into frigid North Atlantic waters, Patty allowed him to grab hold of her tail while she vigorously doggy-paddled against the powerful current. They successfully made it all the way to the nearest land, where they were rescued by game wardens later on that evening. http://www.onlydogbeds.net/when_the_family_dog_doubles_as_a_lifesaver-19198.php http://www.onlydogbeds.net/when_the_family_dog_doubles_as_a_lifesaver-19198.php Dog News dogs dog_ rescuers heroic_ dogs stories_ about_ heroic_ dogs things_ dogs_ do Sun, 14 Mar 2010 11:35:19 -0800

Arsenicum album-his is a remedy that is indicated for dogs with heavy sneezing, watery discharge which is a little corrosive, and the nasal passages may be painful to touch. You will find that your dog is restless, and thirsty, and often very skittish.

Allium cepa-This remedy (which is made from red onions) is suitable for dogs with watery eye and nose discharges, red eyes, and frequent sneezing. While the eye discharge is often bland, the nasal discharge burns the nose and the upper lip.

Aconitum napellus-Dogs who are requiring this remedy have sudden onset of symptoms, generally sore, red, watery eye; sneezing with little nasal discharge; dry coughing; and they show great fear and anxiety. The symptoms also tend to worsen in a warm room.

Calcarea sulphurica-This remedy can be useful if your dog has thick, lumpy, yellow mucous discharges, from his nose and/or eyes. Dog owners should know that sometimes the yellow discharge from the nose may be blood-tinged. Calcarea sulphurica is often used to encourage respiratory health, and promote the health of the throat, and nasal passages.

Hepar sulphuris-This remedy is suitable for dogs, with an upper respiratory infection, that has progressed to the point of soreness. The nostrils of the dog can sometimes become ulcerated, and there is a foul-smelling discharge from the nose.

Kali bichromicum-This herbal remedy is suitable for dogs with greenish-yellow, elastic, ropy discharge, from the eyes and nose. They may also develop tough crusts on the outer portion of the nostrils that are difficult to remove. Breathing through the nose has become difficult, and violent sneezing often occurs as a result. They may also have a sore throat, which makes swallowing difficult. The symptoms are usually better in warm conditions and worse in the morning.

Sulphur-This remedy is indicated for dogs that have watery, irritating, and sometimes yellowish nasal discharges. Sneezing is frequent, and the dogs may also rub the nose, and the eyes because of the burning irritation. Dogs that have this problem are thirsty, and have poor appetite. Early morning also tends to be the worst.

Pulsatilla-Dogs who are needing this remedy are not thirsty; they are affected with bland, greenish-yellow nasal discharges that obstruct the nose and fill the eyelids. Besides sneezing, the dogs also have itchy eyes, and an irritating cough. The symptoms worsen in a warm, stuffy atmosphere and in the evening.

There are also several other combinations of herbs, and homeopathic remedies, that can be given to your dog. These combinations are meant to strengthen the immune system of both healthy dogs, and those fighting an infections. Check with your holistic vet, or pet shelter for recommendations on these products. ]]> http://www.onlydogbeds.net/homeopathic_remedies_for_dog_sneezing-19204.php http://www.onlydogbeds.net/homeopathic_remedies_for_dog_sneezing-19204.php Learn About Dogs causes_ of_ dog_ sneezing dogs dogs_ and_ sneezing sneezing why_ is_ my_ dog_ sneezing Sat, 13 Mar 2010 08:06:58 -0800 Dogs the world over have shown their love and devotion to their human friends. Here are stories from around the world that will amaze you with the heroic spirit found in our canine companions. • Sangeeta, a young mother of three boys, looks down on her eldest son, Dinakaran, and the dog that saved his life, Selvakumar. Selvakumar looks like every other dog in the village. He hardly ever barks and lets the three young boys in his family climb all over him and pull his tail without protest. At night, he joins the rest of the family and sleeps among them, no matter how many times they throw him out. Most days, the dog escorts Dinakaran, the oldest, to and from school, spending the rest of the day playing with the other two boys, or begging for food. Sangeeta's brother-in-law gave her the puppy following the birth of her second son. When the brother-in-law died in an accident two years ago they changed the dog's name to his. Sangeeta's family had always lived along the coast, just north of Pondicherry, a former French colony. The morning of December 26 began like most others, with sunny skies and a cool breeze. Sangeeta's husband, R Ramakrishnan, had just returned from his early morning fishing with a boat full of fish. From their home, the view of the ocean was obstructed, by a two-story community centre. So when they heard a strange noise, coming from the sea, Sangeeta's husband went to investigate. The panic began as her husband screamed, "Run away!" from a rooftop after he spotted the colossal waves, of the tsunami. This was when the young mother, was forced to make an agonizing choice. Sangeeta quickly grabbed her two youngest sons and hoped that the third and oldest (7-year-old Dinakaran) would outrun the tsunami churning toward her home. She believed because he was older he would be able to outrun the oncoming waves. However, she watched horrified as Dinakaran didn't follow. The young boy panicked, and headed for the safest place he knew, the small family hut just 40 yards from the seashore. Sangeeta thought she would never see him again; however, he was saved by the family dog. While water lapped at Sangeeta's heels as she rushed up a hill, the scruffy dog named Selvakumar ducked into the hut after Dinakaran. The dog did everything in his canine power to get the boy up the hill by nipping and nudging him. Sangeeta, who like many south Indians only uses one name, had no idea of the drama that was unfolding below. Once she had crossed the main road to safety, she collapsed into tears, screaming over the loss of her eldest son. She recounts, "I had heard from others that the wall of my house had collapsed, I felt sure that my child had died," said the 24-year-old mother. Dinakaran quickly credits the dog with saving his life. "That dog grabbed me by the collar of my shirt," the boy said. "He dragged me out." • Bill Marshall, a native of London, England credits his German Shepherd, Crabby, for leading him and his family out of their burning home. The dog awoke the sleeping family with her incessant barking, and then carefully guided each family member out of the smoke-filled house. When Bill was outside, he tried to grab onto Crabby, to keep her from re-entering the home, unaware that one of his children was still inside. The dog broke away and led Christi Marshall, a seven-year-old girl, out of the family home, and into the waiting arms of her parents. While the home was a total loss, the Marshall's credit Crabby with saving their lives. http://www.onlydogbeds.net/heroic_dog_stories_from_around_the_world-19197.php http://www.onlydogbeds.net/heroic_dog_stories_from_around_the_world-19197.php Dog News dogs dog_ stories heroic_ dogs_ around_ the_ world heroic_ dog_ stories international_ dog_ stories Fri, 12 Mar 2010 11:24:24 -0800

Breed Characteristic-Sometimes dogs snore because of who they are. This happens most often to dogs with short snout such as pugs, bulldogs, Pekingese, etc. They are also much more likely to sneeze due to infection or irritating products. Knowing the characteristic of your dog's breed can often put your mind to rest that your dog is just being who she really is.

• Upper respiratory tract infections-These are generally caused by airborne virus, such as Para-influenza virus. Upper respiratory tract infections can also be caused by bacteria, such as Bordetella, Streptococci, etc.
• · Allergies-This type of sneezing is caused by pollens or mold. Dog owners should know that usually the sneezing is accompanied by excessive scratching, paw chewing, licking, and watery eyes. Allergies can also be caused by household chemicals, and other products such as perfumes, cigarette smoke, etc.
• Foreign bodies-These are objects that can become lodged in the dog's nose such as: foxtails, dead bugs, small sticks, tinsels, etc. The dog's defense mechanism is start sneezing in order to remove it. In rare cases, tumors can also cause sneezing. Tumors are usually accompanied by bloody nasal discharge from one side of the nostril.
• Tooth abscesses-This can cause sneezing if an upper canine tooth becomes infected. In dogs, the third upper premolar tooth has roots that penetrate close to the nasal passages. If this tooth or the ones adjacent to it becomes infected, sneezing and nasal drainage are common signs.

Once you are aware of the causes of sneezing you can go about trying to find out what is happening with your dog. Here are some questions that can be helpful in pinpointing the possible cause that is bringing about sneezing in your dog:

• Does the sneezing happen right after a walk in the woods? (Possible cause: foreign bodies in the nostril)
• Does the sneezing begin suddenly and is the sneezing violent? (Possible cause: foreign bodies)
• Does the sneezing happen only in spring or early summer? (Possible cause: seasonal allergy)
• Are the sneezing fits triggered by eating? (Possible cause: food allergy)
• Is the nasal discharge only one-sided? (Possible causes: tumor, tooth abscess, foreign bodies)
• Is the nasal discharge bloody? (Possible causes: foreign bodies, tumor, tooth abscess)
• Is the sneezing accompanied by fever? (Possible causes: tumor, upper respiratory tract infection)

Many dog owners are understandably confused as to when they should take their dog to see their vet. It is crucial to watch for certain symptoms since some causes of sneezing are far more serious then others. However, there are certain guidelines that you should always follow. You should take your dog to the vet immediately if:

• the nasal discharge is bloody
• the discharge obstructs breathing
• the sneezing continues for more than 3 days, and occurs more than 3-4 times a day
• the dog is weak and cannot eat because of the sneezing

If your vet has ruled out any serious causes for your dog's sneezing there other natural remedies that can be used. Some of these are:

• Ointments of Calendula or Aloe-If your dog's nose becomes red and irritating, because of the nasal discharges that is resulting from sneezing, apply an ointment of either calendula or aloe to the affected area(s).
• Herbs-There are immune-boosting herbs, such as Echinacea, which can be fed to your dog for a week to boost his immune system.
• Antioxidants-Vitamins C and E are known antioxidants, and can be effective in reduce the intensity of the inflammation.

]]> http://www.onlydogbeds.net/why_is_my_dog_sneezing-19203.php http://www.onlydogbeds.net/why_is_my_dog_sneezing-19203.php Learn About Dogs causes_ of_ dog_ sneezing dogs dogs_ and_ sneezing sneezing why_ is_ my_ dog_ sneezing Fri, 12 Mar 2010 08:04:11 -0800

Come when called-This is one of the most basic skills your dog should have. Having a dog that will come when called does not mean you will let your dog run loose, but it's life insurance when your dog accidentally gets out. This is important in day-to-day as well as emergency handling.

Sit and/or down-You dog should be trained to be able to sit when commanded. Keep in mind that some dogs find this painful, so your dog may need to be trained to go down.

Stay-Experts advise that practicing stays with your dog, helps your dog learn composure, and the ability to remain calm. Too many dogs lack this ability, and it makes their lives harder for them, as well as for their families. The stay exercise is also a way to become your dog's leader, without making a fight of it.

Walk on a loose lead-While many pet owners and trainers worry about the humaneness of a leash, it has been show that if the leash is loose, the collar (or head halter or harness) is putting less pressure on the dog and most of the time no pressure at all. A dog that is conditioned to work with the leash loose, is easier to handle, and easier to train. This is because instead of being dragged around by the leash, the dog learns to pay attention to the handler. Keeping the leash loose also spares the dog, potential injuries from training devices that can rub off hair and abrade skin.

Not to bite-For family dogs this becomes a crucial skill. Pet owners must train puppies never to put their teeth to skin. This becomes a critical safety issue, especially if there are children in the home.

Housetraining-Studies show that a lack of reliable house-training, is a major cause of small dogs losing their homes. Caring pet owners will take the time to train their dogs, about going outside.

]]> http://www.onlydogbeds.net/how_much_training_does_your_dog_need-19210.php http://www.onlydogbeds.net/how_much_training_does_your_dog_need-19210.php Learn About Dogs dogs dog_ training how_ much_ training_ for_ dogs how_ to_ train_ your_ dog training_ your_ dog Thu, 11 Mar 2010 10:07:37 -0800 Apple Cinnamon Drops-These will make your whole house smell great! You will need:

• 1 large apple
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/2 cup of water
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 cup oatmeal
• 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1/8 cup whole wheat flour

Directions: Preheat oven to 350 ° F. The first step is to core; slice and mince the apple (use a food processor if you have one). In a large bowl, you will then combine the minced apple bits, honey, water, cinnamon, and oatmeal. Gradually blend in the wheat flour, adding just enough to form stiff dough. In another small bowl, add 1/8 cup wheat flour. Carefully, spoon the dough by rounded teaspoon onto un-greased baking sheets, spacing about 2 inches apart. Using the bottom of a glass, dipped in the wheat flour (to prevent sticking), flatten each spoonful of dough into a circle. Keep in mind that you can adjust the size of the drops, based on how big a treat you like to feed your dog. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove from oven and flip each cookie to brown evenly on both sides. Reduce oven temperature to 325 ° F. Return to oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes. Let cool overnight. Makes about 3 dozen crunchy cookies, depending on how big you make them. Bacon Bits for Dogs-These savory treats will have your dog begging for more! You will need:

• 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
• 4 eggs, well beaten
• 1/8 cup bacon fat
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup non-fat dry milk powder
• 2 cup graham flour
• 2 cup wheat germ
• 1/2 cup cornmeal

Directions: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix all of the ingredients with a strong spoon; drop heaping tablespoonfuls onto a greased baking sheet. Bake in a 350 oven for 15 minutes. The next step is to turn off oven, and leave cookies on baking sheet, in the oven overnight to dry out. Yield: about 4 dozen dog cookies. Canine Carrot Cookies-Your pet will love the doggy version of this human treat. What you will need:

• 2 cups carrots (that have been boiled and pureed)
• 2 eggs
• 2 tablespoons garlic that is minced
• 2 cups unbleached flour (you can also use rice or rye flour)
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/4 cup wheat germ

Directions: Preheat your oven to 300 degrees. Combine the carrots, eggs, and garlic. Mix until completely smooth. Add the rest of the dry ingredients. Gently roll out on heavily floured surface, and cut into bars, or desired shapes. Bake at 300 degrees for 45 minutes or to desired crunchiness. Remember that the centers will continue to harden as they cool. Brush with egg white before baking, for a glossy finish. Dog Cookies with Chicken Broth-Dogs love the taste of these unique homemade treats. What you will need:

• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 2/3 cup yellow cornmeal
• 1/2 cup sunflower seeds that have been shelled
• 2 tablespoons corn oil
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup low-fat milk
• 1 egg-beaten

Directions: Heat oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl, mix together flour, cornmeal and seeds. Add oil, broth and egg mixture. The dough should be firm. Let rest for about 15-20 minutes. On a lightly floured surface, roll out dough approximately 1/4 inch thick. You can then cut into shapes, and brush with beaten egg. Bake for 25-35 minutes, until golden brown. Remove and cool. Store in airtight container. ]]> http://www.onlydogbeds.net/homemade_dog_treats-19207.php http://www.onlydogbeds.net/homemade_dog_treats-19207.php Dog Health dogs dog_ treats homemade_ dog_ treats recipes_ for_ homemade_ dog_treats treats Thu, 11 Mar 2010 09:53:46 -0800 Boomer, on a street near her home. She stumbled into a pothole and broke both her legs in the fall. While Bonnie screamed for help, Boomer lay right down on the road and stayed there. After no one came to help, Bonnie wrapped her arms around Boomer's neck and simply said, "Home". The 160-pound Lab dragged Bonnie all the home, where her husband found her and called for medical help. Bonnie ends her story by saying that she had rescued Boomer from a shelter, never dreaming that one day he would end up rescuing her. • Linda Clevenger of Bremen, Indiana recounts how her miniature dachshund, Maggie May Longfellow, saved her entire family. The dog typically slept with their 12-year old daughter, Katrina, in a top bunk with her sister Kelli, sleeping in the bottom bunk. On February 2, 2005, at 2:30 a.m., Linda states that she and her husband, James, were awakened by Maggie barking near our bed. While they were understandably startled, they immediately smelled gas. Linda frantically rushed to the kitchen where she found a burner left on, spewing out natural gas. She quickly threw open the windows, remembering not to turn on lights. Kelli, it turns out, had lifted Maggie May out of the bed. The dog then pawed and scratched until she opened our door. Thanks to her, there was no headline in the paper saying "House Explodes, Killing Family of 7". • In 2004, a 7-year-old Golden Retriever named Brutis received the National Dog Hero Award. He received this award when he snatched up a coral snake as it was slithering dangerously close to a young child, suffering a near-deadly bite from the snake in the process. His heroic actions did not go unnoticed as Brutis was promptly flown to Los Angeles to receive his award. • The Genesis Awards honored a Black Labrador, aptly named Katrina, who, during the misery of Hurricane Katrina, saved a drowning man before the rising flood waters claimed his life. When receiving the honor Katrina, the dog, was given a well-deserved standing ovation. • Fox News reported the heroic tale of a half wolf/half German Shepherd named Shana, who saved an elderly couple from a treacherous snow storm. When Shana found Norman and Eve trapped by snow, she reacted quickly and went to work, diligently digging out a tunnel through which she would pull the couple back to the safety of their home. • 2007's Dog of the Year winner was Moti, the five-year-old German Shepherd who literally took a bullet for his human family. When a masked intruder made his way into the Patel household, Moti wasted little time, leaping to his feet and barking to draw the gunman's attention. When he was faced with the angry pooch, the gunman shot him, and ran off without harming any of the Patels. Luckily, Moti has made a full recovery! • Maya, the 2008 Dog of the Year, took home the honors for courageously saving Angela Marcelino, her owner, from a vicious male attacker. The pitbull's act of bravery earned some high praise from the Animal Miracle foundation, which was happy to report that "the pit-bull breed can be hero dogs just like any other breed." ]]> http://www.onlydogbeds.net/heroic_dog_stories-19196.php http://www.onlydogbeds.net/heroic_dog_stories-19196.php Dog News dog dogs_ behaving_ heroically dogs_ saving_ humans dog_ stories heroic_ dog_ stories Wed, 10 Mar 2010 11:08:39 -0800 Train your dog to only chew on dog toys. It is important to remember that if your dog has a concept of property, it is not the same as a human concept. You need to realize that your dog can not understand that something of yours would be difficult to replace or costs money. Keep in mind that even without understanding why, a dog can learn (with your help over time, as the dog gains maturity) to focus chewing on specific items. Train your dog to greet people with all four of their feet on the ground. If you are a devoted pet lover then jumping up on people sometimes seems like a minor problem. While the whole idea from the dog's point of view is to get closer to the face and hands for greeting, it is important to understand that people do not want to be knocked over, or get their clothing torn or dirty, no matter how much they may love your dog. Train your dog to refrain from chasing vehicles and children. Pet owners need to understand that dogs are bred to have high drives for following moving objects. Your dog may fall into dangerous habits without your guidance. Your best bet to avoid this is to get good training help with this sort of dog early, before the chasing habit has a chance to start. Train your dog to retrieve. Dog training experts advise that the best game to play with a dog is also the foundation for much of the advanced dog training, as a great solution to quite a few dog problems: retrieving. Keep in mind that you will want to start shaping it in your dog, soon after the dog comes to live with you, no matter what age the dog is at that time. You should work on it a little every day. While you are training your dog (of any size) it is important to remember the following principles of good dog training. These are- Training will not really count unless it is reliable-Many dog owners will tell you their dogs are "trained" to certain behaviors, and yet the dog will not perform the behavior in the face of excitement or distraction. Keep in mind that training needs to be reliable, where it is needed most often, around distractions and stress, and in emergencies. Keep in mind that much of this depends on your learning how to handle the dog, so that you will react correctly in an emergency. That takes training for you both and lots of practice. Training happens when you practice properly-Dog owners must understand that training is an ongoing process. You must repeat the practice, until the proper behaviors become deeply established habits. The most important behaviors, such as coming when called, need to be so strongly conditioned that the dog's first impulse will be to just do it, not stop and think first. Training is discipline. When people hear the word discipline, they sometimes mistake it for punishment. Real discipline is activity that builds self esteem. Your dog can take pride in his actions, and in doing a good job. The bottom line is that training builds your bond with your dog, and best of all gives your dog a better chance at a long and happy life. ]]> http://www.onlydogbeds.net/basic_training_skills_for_larger_dogs-19209.php http://www.onlydogbeds.net/basic_training_skills_for_larger_dogs-19209.php Learn About Dogs dogs dog_ training larger_ dogs training_ for_ larger_ dogs training_ skills_ for_ larger_ dogs Wed, 10 Mar 2010 10:01:15 -0800 Bone Bonanzas-Your dog will love these easy to make treats! What you will need: 1/2 lb. ground beef, uncooked 1/4 cup chicken broth 1/3 cup mashed black beans 1/3 cup cottage cheese 1 tsp. soy sauce Directions: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees. Thoroughly combine the ground meat and chicken broth in a bowl. Stir in the black beans, and cottage cheese. Add the soy sauce. Mix all of the ingredients together thoroughly. Mold the mixture into bone shapes and place on a cookie sheet. Bake for 45 minutes in the preheated oven. Let cool. Party Pupcakes-Whether you are celebrating something special or just want a great treat for your dog these will fit the bill! What you will need: 1 large apple 1 1/2 cups wheat flour 1/4 cup oatmeal 2 teaspoons baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 cup plain yogurt 1/2 cup water 1/4 cup vegetable oil 2 tablespoons honey 2 eggs 1 cup grated cheddar cheese For the Frosting: 8 oz Neufchatel Cheese (low fat cream cheese) 2 tablespoons plain yogurt 2 tablespoons honey 2-3 tablespoons flour Directions: Preheat your oven to 400 ° F. Grease muffin tins. Core, slice and mince the apple (use a food processor if you have one). Set aside. In a large bowl, mix together flour, oatmeal, baking powder, and baking soda. In a medium bowl, blend together the yogurt, water, oil, honey, and eggs, and then stir in the apple and cheese. Add to the flour mixture and stir until mixed. Spoon the batter, carefully into the muffin tins, filling each muffin cup about three-quarters full. Bake for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center of a muffin comes out clean. Let rest in the muffin tins for a few minutes, then remove and set aside to cool. To make the frosting: combine the Neufchatel cheese (at room temperature), honey, and yogurt until smooth. You may need to add enough flour to thicken the frosting to a good spreading consistency. Frost the pupcakes and you are ready for a good party! Makes 16-18 pupcakes. If you prefer a single-layer cake, you can spoon the batter into a sheet pan and bake for an extra 15-20 minutes (or until a toothpick inserted in the center of the cake comes out clean). Let the cake cool, then frost and decorate. Peanut butter bones-Many dogs love peanut butter and will gobble down these treats! What you will need: 1 package dry yeast 1/2 cup lukewarm water 1 cup mashed potatoes 1 cup milk 1/4 cup molasses 1/2 cup chicken stock 1 cup chunky peanut butter 1 cup whole wheat flour 1/2 cup rye flour 1/2 cup rice flour 1 egg 2 cups all-purpose white flour Directions: reheat oven to 325 ° F. In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in water. In a large saucepan, mix together the potatoes, milk, molasses, stock, and peanut butter. Heat the mixture, stirring frequently until boiling. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature. Add the yeast mixture. Gradually blend in the egg, wheat, rye, and rice flours. You will want to add enough white flour to form a stiff dough. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead until smooth (about 3-5 minutes). Shape the dough into a ball and roll to 1/2-inch thick. Using cookie cutters, you can then cut out biscuits. Place on an un-greased baking sheets, spacing them about 1/4-inch apart. You can gather up the scraps, roll out again, and cut additional biscuits. Bake for 45 minutes. Let cool overnight. This recipe makes several dozen bones that freeze well. They have the consistency of pizza crusts, a favorite snack for most spoiled dogs! ]]> http://www.onlydogbeds.net/easy_to_make_homemade_dog_treats-19206.php http://www.onlydogbeds.net/easy_to_make_homemade_dog_treats-19206.php Dog Health dogs dog_ treats easy_ homemade_ dog_ treats homemade_ dog_ treats treats Wed, 10 Mar 2010 09:48:36 -0800

A great source of protein-One of the most important things that should be in your dog food is either whole, fresh meats or single-source meat meal (for example, chicken meal rather than poultry meal). A whole meat source should be listed as one of the first two ingredients. Ingredients are always listed in the order of what they contain most. This means that a meat source that is in two of the top three ingredients also helps indicate the food is high in meat. However, you should also keep in mind that all ingredients are listed in descending order of weight, (the ingredient responsible for the greatest amount of weight in the bag is listed first). If a label reads, "beef, ground yellow corn, rice, corn gluten meal," it can appear that there is more beef than anything else in the sack, but the total weight of the ground yellow corn plus corn gluten meal may outweigh the beef.

Whole unprocessed grains, vegetables, and other foods-This is because, whole unprocessed grains, vegetables, and other foods have a great chance of having its nutrients and enzymes intact. You should also look for foods that have whole meat (listed simply as lamb, chicken, beef, etc.) in the top three ingredients. Savvy pet owners also know to look for whole foods like rice, wheat, eggs, and foods, that are kept fresh with natural preservatives like vitamin C and E (often listed as mixed-tocopherols).

Things that should not be in the dog food you choose-

• Meat by-products-These are considered "second-class" products, and are not handled as carefully as whole meat. Meat by-products are defined as the non-rendered, clean parts, (other than meat), that are derived from slaughtered mammals. This can include, but is not limited to: lungs, spleen, kidneys, brain, livers, blood, bone, partially defatted low temperature fatty tissue, stomachs and intestines.
• Poultry by-products-These consist of non-rendered clean parts of carcasses of slaughtered poultry such as heads, feet, viscera.
• Poultry by-products meal-This is defined as the ground, rendered clean parts of the carcass, of slaughtered poultry. This can include necks, feet, undeveloped eggs, and intestines, exclusive of feathers, except in such amounts as may occur unavoidably in good processing practices.
• Animal by-products meal-This is the rendered product from mammal tissues, exclusive of any added hair, hoof, horn, hide trimmings, manure, and stomach and rumen contents. This ingredient definition is also intended to cover those individual rendered animal tissue products that cannot meet the criteria as set forth elsewhere.
• Fats or proteins that are named generically-This includes such labeling as: animal fat, poultry fat, or meat meal, as opposed to the better quality beef fat, chicken fat, or lamb meal. This generic term indicates that the ingredient is actually a mixed bag of ingredients that is coming from a number of sources.
• Artificial preservatives and colors-Preservatives are used to prevent food from turning rancid and sweeteners are added to attract dogs to unappealing food. Neither of these items should be a part of your dog's food.

As a final note- Pet owners should understand that no matter what the marketing says, there is no dog food that contains "all the nutrients your dog will ever need." You are responsible as the pet owner for providing your pet, with all of the items they need to have a balanced and healthy diet. ]]> http://www.onlydogbeds.net/things_you_should_know_about_choosing_dog_food-19202.php http://www.onlydogbeds.net/things_you_should_know_about_choosing_dog_food-19202.php Learn About Dogs choosing_ dog_ food contents_ of _dog_food dog dog_food how_ to_ choose_ dog_ food Wed, 10 Mar 2010 08:01:49 -0800 In today's tight economy, many dog owners are trying to be frugal on their dog's medical care. However, they often find themselves faced with difficult decisions should their beloved pet become seriously ill or get injured. Dog owners sometimes find themselves with an agonizing decision to make. Do they spend the money to treat their pet with state of the art care or try to find an option that's less expensive? Some pet owners are even faced with having to euthanize their dog, rather than treating them, for financial reasons. This is where having dog insurance can helpful. However, deciding if pet insurance is right for you and your dog can be difficult. Dog owners must ask themselves whether they can afford a large, unexpected vet bill. If the answer is no, dog insurance might be worth considering. Today, veterinary medical care, including diagnostic tests and treatment options, is becoming more sophisticated and, therefore, more expensive. Treatments and procedures that were unheard of just a few years ago are now available and employed regularly. With this advance in technology comes a higher price many dog owners cannot afford. Statistics show that veterinary costs can rival human medical costs. Illnesses and injuries that are common in many breeds can end up costing dog owners the thousands of dollars if they decide to treat their pet. This has left dog owners who cannot afford the high prices with few options. Dog insurance gives dog owners the peace of mind and security of knowing that they can treat their dog's problems, should costly medical issues arise. Having dog insurance means not pet owners won't be forced to choose between costly veterinary medical treatments and the budget. Dog owners won't have to decline treatments, or consider euthanasia, due to a limited budget. If an unexpected expense would break the budget, pet insurance is worth considering. Dog owners should also know that there are a variety pet insurance coverage options available. For example, wellness coverage is a basic pet insurance plan that covers annual vaccines and other routine wellness care that is critical to the long-term health of your dog. Once you've decided to purchase dog insurance, ask friends and family who have pets whether they have it and, if so, where they got it. Other dog owners, your vet and your local animal shelter are also excellent resources. A quick search online can check out companies that offer dog insurance as well. Once you have determined which companies you are interested in purchasing from, explore the policies they offer and read the fine print before signing on the dotted line. Some of the questions you want to ask are: • How will my claims be processed and paid? • What is included in my coverage? Will my policy have drug and dental coverage? • How do I get reimbursed? Will my vet be able to handle the billing for my claims or is that my responsibility? • What will cause my premiums to go up? Will I have to pay more as my dog gets older? • Will my plan cover pre-existing and hereditary conditions? • Will my plan cover conditions that are chronic or reoccurring? • Are there any financial limits to my coverage? While experts agree that having dog insurance can make sense financially, they also recommend checking with your vet about your dog's health status. If your dog is older, already in poor health or has a condition that will not be covered then choosing dog insurance may not be cost-effective, appropriate or necessary. However, if your dog is younger, healthy and you plan to share many years together, then having dog insurance can give you peace of mind and years of companionship. http://www.onlydogbeds.net/why_you_need_dog_insurance-19193.php http://www.onlydogbeds.net/why_you_need_dog_insurance-19193.php Dog Health buying_ dog_ insurance dogs dog_ insurance insurance why_ you_ need_ dog_insurance Tue, 09 Mar 2010 13:56:54 -0800

Know what you are buying. When you are shopping it is always crucial to read the ingredients that are listed on the bag or can. It is important to remember, that the ingredients are listed in order; the first ingredient listed is what makes up most of the dog food. Pet owners should understand that dogs do not need a lot of carbohydrates like flour, wheat, or corn and yet many dog foods have those ingredients listed first. Animal experts state that meat should be listed first, whether you are buying canned or dry dog food.

Read the labels. You should always check the package or can to verify that the dog food is nutritionally complete. It is very important that your dog gets all of the vitamins and minerals that are necessary to maintain his good health. Do not allow yourself to be swayed to buy the cheapest dog food, as this might not be the one that is right for your dog.

Always keep in mind the calories. Just like people, you should reduce the calories of the food if your dog is overweight. This has become easier to do because today, many dog food companies have dog food for overweight dogs. You can easily choose a dog food brand that your dog enjoys, while still reducing calories.

Choose the right food for your dog's age. Animal experts stress that it is important to choose a senior dog food for older dogs. This is because senior dogs have less need for calories and energy and at the same time senior dogs have a need for more vitamins to maintain their good health. On the other end of the spectrum it is equally important to feed puppies only puppy style dog food. This is because puppies have a much greater need for calories and vitamins, because they are growing so fast. You will want to make sure you check the dog food labels, to verify that the food is nutritionally complete.

Know what to feed if your dog is sick. You should always ask your veterinarian about feeding a sick dog. This is because all dogs need special nutrition during illness or stress. For example, some dogs will need to have less protein if they suffer from kidney disease. Many vets also recommend a lamb and rice dog food for sick dogs. Remember that your vet is there to help, if you have any concerns or questions about what to feed your dog.

Take into account any other special issues. If your dog is overweight, there is a dog food that is right for him. Weight management food is generally higher in protein and fiber, and lower in calories and fat content, as compared to an adult maintenance food. The high protein levels can help dogs lose fat and not muscle, while high fiber levels help dogs feel satisfied while losing weight. Performance dog food is specifically formulated for hardworking and highly active dogs.

Buy your dog food at the store. Many pet owners feel that they are treating their dogs extra special if they make them homemade dog food. The problem is that homemade dog food runs the risk of containing too much fat for most dogs' needs. This becomes a problem because diets that are high in fat could increase your dog's risk of obesity, high blood pressure, and an elevated heart rate.

]]> http://www.onlydogbeds.net/how_to_choose_the_right_dog_food-19201.php http://www.onlydogbeds.net/how_to_choose_the_right_dog_food-19201.php Learn About Dogs buying_ dog_ food choosing_ dog_ food dog dog_ food how_ to_ choose_ dog_ food Tue, 09 Mar 2010 07:56:56 -0800 Neo, an 11-month-old Siberian husky, earned his hero stripes by getting human help for his imperiled owner, Marci Snead. When Snead, a diabetic with fibromyalgia and rheumatoid arthritis, went into hypoglycemic shock, Neo ran to the nearest building. He then grabbed the attention of several people, who followed Neo, back to where Snead had fallen. Within moments, emergency services were summoned and Snead later made a full recovery. • Kankuntu found himself defending his family from armed pirates at sea. When Peter Lee found himself about to be hijacked on his 41 foot yacht by armed pursuers, the dog leapt right into action, furiously attacking the gunmen, until one of them shot and stabbed the pooch, between his shoulder blades. Amazingly, Kankuntu was nursed back to the health, and the family continued with their voyage. • Junior, a 14-month-old Shih Tzu mix, started barking when fire tore through the Davilmar household in the middle of the night. The heroic dog did not relent until everyone, including the family's half-dozen visiting relatives, was awake and out of the house. • It may seem hard to believe, but Belle, a Beagle, literally bit "911" into Kevin Weaver's cell phone after the diabetic man collapsed from a seizure. Belle became the first canine, to win VITA's Wireless Samaritan Award. Evidently, the pooch had been trained to bite down on the phone's keypad in the event of an emergency and her owner credits her fully with saving his life! • MSNBC tells the story of Toby, a golden retriever who heroically saved owner Debbie Parkhurst from choking to death on an apple in her Maryland home. When it became apparent that she was choking, the dog jumped hard onto her chest and forced the lodged morsel to come loose from her throat. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals' "Dog of the Year" award in 2007 was given to Toby for his lifesaving efforts. • Nyla is another dog that risked her own life in order to save her human owner from the threat of fire. When Sheila found herself surrounded by smoke and flames and was unable to see in front of her, Nyla courageously guided her toward a nearby door, barking whenever Sheila lost track of her. Even though, her home and belongings were destroyed, Sheila was guided to safety, noting that, "Nyla could have left anytime. Instead, she chose to stay and risk her own life and face death to save me." • Michael Hingson found himself on the 78th floor of the World Trade Center on September 11. It took some unexpected heroics, from his yellow Labrador, Roselle, to save his life. When the building started to sway, and the air filled with choking smoke, Roselle lead Michael to safety, guiding him through the crumbling office toward a stairwell. While it was not easy for Michael or Roselle, who was panting and extremely thirsty, the two managed to reach safety just moments before Tower 1 collapsed. • Nellie, a 4-year-old Black Lab, used her high powered ears to detect an intruder in time to save her profoundly deaf owner. The community outpouring was huge and Nellie was given the Heroic Hearing Dog of the Year award! The charity that trained Nellie could not have been more proud. ]]> http://www.onlydogbeds.net/amazing_and_heroic_dog_rescues-19195.php http://www.onlydogbeds.net/amazing_and_heroic_dog_rescues-19195.php amazing_ and_ heroic_ dog_ rescues dogs dog_ rescues heroic_ dogs heroic_ dog_ rescues Mon, 08 Mar 2010 10:12:04 -0800 When dog owners decide to buy insurance for their pet, they are often surprised to find that it is not as straightforward as they thought. Getting just the right amount of dog insurance coverage can be tricky for several reasons. One of the biggest reasons is, much like health care for humans, the rising cost of pet health care due in part to advances in veterinary medicine has caused insurance premiums to skyrocket. This has prompted consumers to simply go without or purchase the bare minimum. Unfortunately, dog owners should understand that with the rising costs of most procedures, going without, or opting for the bare minimum, is not the best way to protect your dog or your pocketbook. Keep in mind that a simple tooth extraction is averaging $1,000. This leaves dog owners wondering exactly how much dog insurance coverage they really need? The answer depends on several different factors. Animal experts advise that getting the right type, and an adequate amount, of dog insurance will depend on a number of factors. These can include but are not limited to: • Your dog's age • Your dog's breed • Your dog's size • Your dog's overall health status Insurance experts recommend purchasing insurance for your pet when he is young, mainly because most dog insurance providers will charge lower premiums based on age alone. Once you have assessed the size, breed and age of your dog, you should also consider this: average costs to treat serious conditions range from $1,000 to more than $5,000. Statistics show that, depending on the type of policy, average monthly premiums can cost anywhere from $20-$40 per month. Deductibles also vary greatly depending on the type of insurance that you choose. When deciding on dog insurance it is important to understand that there are several common types of dog insurances that are available. These include policies for: • Routine and wellness coverage • Genetic condition coverage • Chronic condition coverage • Major medical coverage Routine and wellness coverage, the least expensive of all types of insurance coverage, will cover routine care such as annual checkups, de-worming, spaying and neutering, prophylactic teeth cleaning and vaccinations. Dog owners should also understand that genetic condition coverage is a form of broad coverage, and only a few canine insurance companies offer it. It is one of the most expensive types of coverage because it covers a wide range of genetic conditions, as outlined in each individual policy. It must be stressed that you should read through your policy carefully and talk to your insurance provider about exactly what conditions are covered. It is important to remember that depending on the breed, there are literally hundreds of genetic conditions that can affect dogs. Chronic condition coverage can protect pet owners in the event that their dog develops a common chronic condition such as osteoarthritis, diabetes or Addison's disease. Again like all insurance, the extent of coverage depends greatly on the insurance provider. Some canine insurance companies will cover chronic conditions if they occur in the earlier years of your dog's life, but will exclude them later, and some will even place limits on your payout. Major medical canine insurance, which is also known as "catastrophic coverage", is useful in the event or accidents, emergencies and/or unforeseen conditions. Major medical also has a low monthly premium but a high deductible. It is important to note that most canine insurance providers can and will customize an insurance policy to fit your individual needs by combining several different types of coverage. Most dog owners choose a comprehensive coverage that is usually a combination of routine, wellness coverage and major medical canine insurance. http://www.onlydogbeds.net/dog_insurance_how_much_do_you_need-19192.php http://www.onlydogbeds.net/dog_insurance_how_much_do_you_need-19192.php Dog Health buying_ dog_insurance dogs dog_ insurance how_ much_ dog_ insurance insurance Sun, 07 Mar 2010 13:29:41 -0800 Dog owners often suffer sticker shock after they take their beloved pet to the vet. Many pet owners are concerned about the rising cost of pet health care, which is partially the result of advances in veterinary medicine. To combat the high costs associated with pet care, some pet owners are looking to pet health care insurance as one way to cope. Medical treatments and technologies that were once used only for humans are now being used for pets. These new advanced treatments and surgeries can cost thousands of dollars. This has left some dog owners with an agonizing choice: do they put down their dog because treating a serious illness or injury is not financially possible or do they go into debt to treat the dog? This is where having dog insurance can help. Statistics vary widely on the percentage of pet owners in the United States who insure their pets. However, experts advise considering pet health insurance as a way to prepare for unexpected medical expenses. While it is not always clear whether it is cost-effective, some pet care practitioners say such insurance may simply give owners peace of mind, or help them make decisions, about their pet's future that are not influenced by financial considerations. So how do you go about choosing dog insurance? There are several larger companies that sell this type of insurance. They include: • Veterinary Pet Insurance, • Pethealth Inc. • The Hartville Group • Pets Best Insurance • Embrace Pet Insurance • PetFirst Healthcare • PetPartners • Petplan USA If you know family and friends who've gotten pet insurance, ask them where they purchased it. You can check with local shelters and ask your vet who they recommend as well. Most companies generally offer a few levels of policies that range from $5 to $30 a month on average for a healthy pet. Keep in mind that the cost will vary, depending on the extent of coverage, benefit limits, deductibles and co-payments, just like human health insurance. Dogs are generally more expensive to insure than cats or other animals. Not unlike human health insurance, pet insurance coverage varies according to company and plan. Some companies offer a basic "safety plan" that only covers treatment for injuries such as broken bones, bee stings and burns. At the other end of the spectrum, some companies have plans that can be customized to cover cancer treatment and alternative therapy like acupuncture. When you are shopping for a policy, it is crucial that that you find out exactly what the policy covers. Asking about exclusions is also important. Dog owners will also need to know that most policies exclude pre-existing conditions, many exclude hereditary conditions, which purebred dogs are more likely to have and limit coverage for older animals. Dog owners should also consider that if your pet is advanced in years, in poor health, or if you do not want to subject the animal to a major surgical procedure, insurance may not be a worthwhile investment. You should talk to your vet about your pet's health, and ask insurance companies about the limits of coverage, before purchasing a policy Here are some additional questions that you should ask the insurance company, before buying any policy: • Will my claim payments based on my vet bill or the insurance company's benefit schedule? • Are drug and dental coverage included in the policy? • Will my premium go up over time, as I file claims, or my pet gets older? • What is the procedure for reimbursement? Do I pay the vet and then submit the bill, or will the vet handle billing? • Will the plan cover chronic or recurring conditions? • Are their financial limits of coverage? How are they applied? http://www.onlydogbeds.net/do_you_need_dog_insurance-19191.php http://www.onlydogbeds.net/do_you_need_dog_insurance-19191.php Dog Health dogs dog_ insurance insurance pet_ insurance purchasing_ dog_ insurance Sun, 07 Mar 2010 12:56:58 -0800