Warren London

Improve Your Dog's Health With Natural

 

Everyone who has a dog and who is conscientious about their own health will clearly see the benefits of providing a similar lifestyle for their pet.
That not only means finding a good place for your dog to live, but also providing for his health.

Commit yourself to your dogís health by giving your dog the best in natural dog health care. As with humans, natural health care 
for dogs is often an advantageous alternative to chemical treatment.

If you want your dog to have the benefit of providing you with the companionship and entertainment that you need, then you really should make that effort to take care of his needs.

Natural Dog Health 

Natural dog health focuses on taking care of your dog's needs by using the best natural products you can find. Your dog has special needs; and you must to ensure that these needs are met on a regular basis if you want to see your dog live a long and healthy life. 

Natural dog health care is also about purchasing the natural products that will best benefit your dog. A healthy dog is a happy dog; and when you take out your friend to play, everyone you encounter will see exactly how much love and dedication you have by giving your dog the best treatment and lifestyle possible.

The shiny coat and healthy look will be all the evidence they need. You will also be doing the best for yourself by adapting the natural dog care lifestyle, since you will have your friend around for a long time. 

His immune system will be strong and he will enjoy partaking in the games that you will play. Natural dog health is also about changing your lifestyle so that you can be able to incorporate it in the way that you take care of your dog. 

That means that you too should consider making natural health a part of you life. This could mean purchasing products that are natural and therefore good for your health. 

By combining both methods, both you and your dog can life a happy and healthy life.

Written by Eric Bittman — May 13, 2013

How to get your Dog to Stop Pulling on the Leash

Dogs which pull on their leash while walking with you is a common problem seen among many different breeds. This problem can be seen in puppies as well as adult dogs. Dogs which pull on their leash while you walk this is more than just aggravating. If the leash breaks, the dog could run and put itself or others in danger. You should want to walk your dog, not have it walking you.

There are a number of different reasons why your dog will pull on the leash. Some dogs are so happy to go for a walk that they are out of control, and are anxious to move about. Other dogs see themselves as being the leader, and will move forward with force because they feel that they are moving ahead of the pack. If you r dog is very happy about going out, it may help to give them some time to calm down. You can stand still with the dog for a few minutes until they become more relaxed.

If the dog feels that it is the leader, this is a sign that you should begin training him. The owner has to show the dog that they are the leader. When you don't have this understanding with your dog, it will be impossible to train them properly. If your dog shows signs of control, it is best to go back to simple obedience training. If you don't have the time to train the dog yourself, it may be best to send them to a dog training school.

dog leash pulling

The instructor can train you as well as your dog, and they can show you how to keep the dog from trying to be the leader. Skilled instructors should always work with both you and your dog. The first step in getting the dog not to pull on the leash is to get it to accept the collar. If the dog is moving around a lot while you are trying to put on the collar, this is a sign that your dog will pull against the leash. Start by commanding your dog to sit or stay while you put on the collar. If the dog gets up after you've put on the collar, make him sit back down quickly.

You should only walk the dog after it sits down calmly and allows you to put on the collar and leash. Once the collar is on, don't allow the dog to jump up and rush ahead towards the door. Gently pull back on the leash. Make him sit back down again, and repeat the process until he gets the message.



Written by Eric Bittman — April 10, 2013

Important Thing to Know About Puppies

The excitement of choosing your dog is over.  You are arriving home and the family is rushing out of the car and into the house with the new puppy.  As you look at the cute little face you ask yourself one question.  Am I ready for this?

What to Feed This New Puppy.

First things first.  You will have to decide on what this little puppy is going to eat.  You need to choose a high quality diet.  You need to do a little reasearch and make some decisions.  Your first decision is what type of dog food you will choose.  

1. Canned Dog Food
2. Dried Dog Food

Some people choose canned dog food because they feel it is more like real food.  It retains about 70-80% of the water that is naturally in the vegetables and meat.  This usually means that the puppy will drink less water.  Be sure to supplement with some hard dog biscuits that are suitable for puppies which will help to keep their teeth clean.

Currently the most popular choice seems to be the dried dog food.  Always choose the best quality food you can afford.  You have to remember that if you were only going to eat one thing all your life it had better be good for you.  Dried dog food is now a scientific blend of all the nutrients your dog will need but the better ones have less filler and the puppies need a lot of protein to grow.

For the first few days you might want to give the new puppy that same food that they were receiving at the kennel you bought them from.  After that you can slowly start mixing in your new choice, using more each time until you have 100% of the new food.  You may as well start with some dog training basics now by not leaving the food on the floor all day.  Only put the food out when you decide and take it away after they have eaten.  Do it often as they have to learn that food is only available when you decide.  

Sleep Time Comes Fast.

Hopefully you have thought ahead enough to buy a crate.  Get your puppy started sleeping in the crate from the first night and it will eventually treat it as a safe place to stay.  Make sure that the bottom has a soft blanket for the puppy to curl up in.  Unfortunately if you think that's the end of it for the night, you are wrong.  As you try to sleep you will be constantly woken by the sad little cries of a puppy missing its mother and siblings.  They are used to lots of warmth and noise so it might be a good idea to add a hot water bottle under the blanket and to leave a radio or TV on for a while.  Some people even leave a loud ticking clock near the cage to simulate the heart beat of the mother.

Who Is Entertaining Whom?

You will soon realize that your puppy is not just entertaining but also needs to be entertained.  You should have a selection of safe toys for them to play with such as:-

- Chew Ropes,
- Balls and Bones of Nylon
- Soft Toys

4 cute puppies

Make sure to be careful of the squeaky toys as the puppy could chew the toy and swallow the squeaker.  This has often ended in surgery and even if it doesn't the squeaking will drive you insane as they catch on pretty quickly on how to bite in exactly the right spot.  Only let them play with rubber balls if you are supervising as swallowed rubber can upset their stomachs.  

Start With Dog Training Basics

A crate is useful training tool both for house training and puppy behavior in general. Treat it as you would a childs bedroom.  It is a safe comfortable place to sleep but occasionally they will be sent there when naughty.

You should begin your dog training basics by putting your puppy in its crate any time you need to leave them unsupervised in the house, or at night. This gets them used to it and they will often go there on their own when they want to get away from people. They will cry at first but do not let them out right away.  If you do they will quickly learn that all they have to do is whine and you will let them out. 

There will come a time when you need to discipline your puppy.  You should never hit your puppy or raise your voice.  You can use the crate as a time-out  place.  This is useful if your puppy is play biting too much or if you have caught them chewing the furniture. Make sure that the punishment instantly follows the bad behavior or they will not know what they are in there for.  Put them in quickly with a firm, No, and leave them in there for a few minutes.  If you have to repeat it then increase the minutes until you get the action to stop.  This one tool will give you some control and get you started on the dog training basics you will need.

Written by Eric Bittman — April 03, 2013

Is Your Dog's Dental Health Important?

Many veterinarians stress the importance of oral hygiene because tooth and gum problems are common medical conditions seen in pets. If left unchecked, an unhealthy mouth can affect the liver, kidneys, heart and even the brain. 

So when you lean in to give your pet a smooch, ask yourself ìDoes my pet need a breath mint?î Studies show that 98% of pets with bad breath are suffering from severe plaque build up. Bad breath not only means that your pet's mouth may be a warehouse for unhealthy bacteria, tartar and plaque, but it can also point to unhealthy intestines. In addition, the quality of your pet's food can contribute to the status of your pet's breath. Low quality food can cause digestive problems, thus promoting bad breath.
 
Can I Share My Toothpaste With My Pet? Absolutely not! 
Pets aren't like us: they swallow whatever you use to clean their teeth. Human toothpaste simply isn't edible. Nor is the heavy minty flavor really desirable to pets. Human toothpaste can give your pet some serious stomach problems. 
 
Did you know?
Certain breeds of dogs and cats are genetically predisposed to unhealthy teeth and gums? For example, the Maltese is the number one dog breed with tooth and gum problems. In the cat world, the Siamese and the Abyssinian, charming as they are, have serious tooth problems and often get some of their teeth pulled during their youth. Other factors include viruses, bacteria and not enough abrasive foods.



It all starts with the gums looking almost red, and some of the teeth coated with tartar. When it comes to your pet's mouth, don't take anything for granted. When you examine your pet, slowly open his mouth with your fingers and ask yourself the following questions:

Does his breath smell like he just raided a rotten fish market? 

Are any of his canines or molars discolored (gray, brown or green)? (Keep in mind that a pet's teeth may be yellow due to early antibiotics like tetracyclineótotally normal.) 

Are his gums swollen and bright pink or angry red like a lobster with a sunburn? Note that normal colored gums should be light to medium pink. For some dark colored cats and dogs, gums may be gray.
 
Do you see any sores on the gums, particularly if you have a cat? They'll look like craters on the top or bottom gum or lip. 

Are his bottom teeth worn down like the soles of a shoe? 

Do you see any swelling or sores on his face around the lips, under the eyes or nose? Bad teeth can result in a manifestation of external sores.

If you have a puppy or a kitten, do you see any double teeth? 

Is he drooling like a newborn? Keep in mind that some dogs always drool, like the St. Bernard. If your pet is experiencing excessive drooling but doesn't usually, it could indicate some problem. 

Has he lost weight recently as a result of not eating enough? 

It's also important to observe your pet's behavior as far as food is concerned. Has your pet been approaching his food bowl reluctantly? Has he been eating slower than usual and has he exhibited trouble biting hard things? Does your dog or cat cry during or after eating? Does your cat have the tendency to pick up food, spit it out, pick it up again and finally throw it to the back with his tongue?

If you've nodded your head to two or more of any of the questions above, then it's clear that your pet has some dental health issues! You must take your pet to your veterinarian right away for an oral examination.

Written by Eric Bittman — March 07, 2013

Warren London At Dog Fashion Show 2013

Come check out Warren London who will be selling dog nail polish pens for charity at this wonderful event!


 


Kick Off "Westminster Weekend" with The New York Pet Fashion Show!
 (Formerly known as the Pre-Westminster Fashion Show)

The 2013 New York Pet Fashion Show presented by Tropiclean  kicks off
"Westminster Weekend", New York Fashion Week, Valentines Day, and is being held at the 
Historic Hotel Pennsylvania on Friday evening Feb 8th 2013 from 6-11 pm.

We invite you to attend the Event of the Season and A Celebration Of Love for Animal Rescue, which features a Roaring 20's theme and superb evening. Come see hundreds ofdogs & people  in their Roaring 20's outfits of this glorious  era. Enjoy three amazing runway fashion shows by renowned fashion designer & our Creative Director Ada Nieves, plus many other Top National Pet designers from across the country.
 
 
 The Most Expensive Gala Dog Dress Ever Made ($14,000)
By Celebrity Designer Kiki Hamann...
The Centauras will be on the runway at The New York Pet Fashion Show. This one of a kind couture gown is emblazoned with black diamond Swarovski crystals over four layers of Valentino Shantung, Gazar, Peau de Soie, and Organza textured silks in midnight black, lined in four layers of obsidian Tulle, heavily beaded, and completely hand-stitched, finished with touches of Organza flowers. Deriving its name and inspiration from the galaxy

 Come see the world's most famous dog "Lassie" on the runway in commemoration of the 75th anniversary of Lassie in TV,books & film.
-  (2) Animal Haven Shelter dogs walk the runway looking for "Forever Homes" after they've been made over by celebrity groomer Jorge Bendersky
- Also walking the runway are Shanna Olson - Ms California  2013
- Richard Pryor Jr, - Justin Silver from the CBS "Dogs In The City" 
- Nency Escamilla Ms. New York 2011 - Harrison Forbes celebrity pet expert and many more to come
 
This is an Animal Rescue Benefit for Animal Haven Shelter of NYC,
and a portion of the proceeds will go to benefit this fine organization.

 
Some say that New York City is the Capital of the world. Whether it’s Media, Fashion, or Finance, one thing is certain -- New York City is the Dog Capital of the world.
Spread the word and "Help Save Animals Lives" Come see some adoptable Animal Haven Shelter dogs on the runway. 

 
This event is being filmed for TV, and features three special runway shows:
* Roaring 20's Best in Show Costume Contest"
* 50 Shades Of Love Romantic Runway Show"
Gold Paw Sponsor Runway Show"
Cocktails, Food, Music, and vendors selling some of the best and coolest pet products in the market today, and many more surprises.
 
When: February 8th, 6PM-11PM www.nypetfashionshow.com
Where: The Hotel Pennsylvania-Penn Top Ballroom (18th Floor)
Address: 401 Seventh Ave, 33rd St, New York, NY. 10001
Tickets: $35 In advance ($45 at the door)

Tickets are Selling FAST! Buy Yours Today at www.NYPetFashionShow.com
For More Information info@NYPetFashionShow.com 
Special room rates available- click on Hotel Pennsylvania Banner below
A Portion of proceeds to Benefit Animal Haven Shelter
 
Come and Enjoy this Fabulous Event Featuring:
* Roaring 20's Best in Show Costume Contest- a few spots remain
* 50 Shades Of Love Romantic Runway Show
* Gold Paw Sponsor Runway Show
* Bring cash, Credit Cards, Checks to support Animal Haven Shelter and Vendors
* Human & Canine Celebrities! A real Prince on the Runway
* The legendary Lassie walking the runway
* Complimentary Food & Cash bar, Complimentary VIP Gift Bags

Written by Eric Bittman — February 04, 2013

Facebook Dog Polish Contest

 Warren London Friday Facebook Contest.  The question was, what kind of dog breed do you have and what is the best thing about that breed? Here are some answers!

dog_breeds

  • Kimberley Ann Furner Bayliss My Bo-Chi Odie burrows. Its the cutest thing watching him cover himself up with a blanket, or climb into your hoody to go to sleep!   X
    6 hours ago · Unlike · 1
  • Laurie Thompson I have Yorkshire Terriers. I love that they are little dogs with a big dog attitude. We enjoy competing in all types of events. They can look beautiful in the show ring and look just as beautiful running tunnels hunting for quarry when doing go-to-ground. I will admit they look awful cute with matching bows and nail polish!
    6 hours ago · Unlike · 1
  • Prissy Clemons American cocker spaniel. Smart as a whip!!! Beautiful dog! You wouldn't believe with a full show coat he stays cleaner than all my other dogs! I also have a chihuahua. Smart and feisty. Won't back down to anything no matter how large! Small dog! Big heart!
    6 hours ago via mobile · Unlike · 1
  • Raysa Viera Khloe, my 2 months old Scottish Terrier is a funny, smart, playful, hyper, and cutest breed I've ever had. She always love to sleep over my shoulder like a baby....Khloe definitely owns my heart 
    6 hours ago · Unlike · 1
  • Jessica Dobson Reeves I have a few different breeds of dogs, and they all have things about them that I love but, my 2 year old Pitbull, Madamoiselle Cocoa La Roo (aka Roo), who loves playing in the waterhose in the summer, curlin up by a fire in the winter and getting her Pawdicures. My favorite part? I can't pick JUST one!! *whispering* She thinks shes the size of my Ratchi*.. And she speaks fluent English!.. Shes such the opposite of the stereotypical Pitbull you can't even call her a Pitbull - the only thing that gives her away is she looks like a natural Pitbull (ears & tail intact). I love all my animals, but Miss Roo - she's truly somethin special 
    6 hours ago · Unlike · 1
  • Queen of Paws Boutique & Spa I've always had Shihtzus and my favorite in general with all 3 is their personality. All 3 were different but special & unique in so many different ways!
    6 hours ago · Unlike · 1
  • Tricia Hansen I have 4 rescues, all different breeds, but Emma, my Golden Doodle, is my yuppy puppy. I fell in love with her the minute I saw her. She has more energy than you can imagine and is the sweetest girl. She loves to play a hard game of ball and then cuddle on the couch. And if I'm not petting her enough, she takes her paw and pulls my hand to her. I love ALL my puppies!
    6 hours ago · Unlike · 1
  • Regina Allen Fowler Sasha, is 4 yrs old she is a mix chi/dox (chiweenie) i love hr because she loes me as much as i love her, when i come home she is jummping up and down until i say hello to her and i love when i talk to her and she just howls and lick me hysterically. she love to cuddle and her favorite place is on my chest where she use to sleep when she was a pup, i don't thnk she realize that she is not 2 lbs anymore lol. she is so cute becasue she is a perfect blend of both dogs
    6 hours ago · Unlike · 1
  • Christine Aiello I have an American Cocker Spaniel named Coco Chanel Bella. I have always loved them because of their long curly ears and then fluffy long hair!!! Plus they are always happy dogs!! Their whole butt and little tail shake when they see you!
    6 hours ago · Unlike · 1
  • Kaela Rose Elwood is my Scottish Deerhound. I love him because he's endearing. He has a gruff elegance about him and yet is a big goof at the same time. 
    He's boisterous, and knows the pretext time for a nibble kiss is in the middle of a scolding.
    He is my dear deerhound.
    5 hours ago via mobile · Unlike · 1
  • Kristina White I have a standard poodle I love that they are true class clowns she gets up and dances around and actually squeals with delight when I get home then nuzzles into my neck and just cries also when I had my accident she never left my side
    5 hours ago via mobile · Unlike · 1
  • Sherri Stevens Wolff I have 2 standard poodles and a greyhound. My favorite thing about the poodles is their constant antics that gives me complete happiness to watch (even on my worst days those 2 make me smile and laugh). My favorite thing about the greyhound is watching her zoom around the backyard for a total of 5 minutes and then just sprawl out in the sun and relax.
    5 hours ago · Unlike · 1
  • Maria Christner Davis I have an old English Bull Dog who is beautiful Her name is Tessa and she is Brindle. Tessa thinks she is a lap dog. THis big girl loves to lay in my lap for hrs. We call it snuggle time. She greats me at the door with a BIG smile on her face. If my husband is out of town Ill say Lets go snuggle and she runs into the bedroom and jumps on the bed and cuddles next to me. I can sleep for hrs like that She snores and will lay her head on the feather pillow and get under blankies. Its like sleeping next to an electric Blanket. Her fav color is pink if we go to petco she is drawn to anything pink including her collar and clothes and her leash. I wouldnt trade her for anything. We were having a issue finding a comfortable bed for her so I got a baby Mattress pink sheets a new pad and blankie. SHe loves her bed and goes into a coma when she sleeps in it. SHe brings such joy and love into my life. My daughters say I love her more then them and they probably are right.
    4 hours ago · Unlike · 2
  • Jackie Maher I have a boston terrier, Roxie Boo Boo. There is a lot to love about this breed, but I think it's all about their ears. I love how they slick back when she's running, perk straight up to listen, hang to the side when she's chill then get all floppy for a nap. Just check out the ears and you know what their up to!
    4 hours ago · Unlike · 1
  • Kara Cass My 11month old westie is called piper and everytime she gets a ball in her mouth she goes 'woo woo woo woo!' its not quite a bark but its like she saying 'ive got the ball!'
    4 hours ago via mobile · Unlike · 1
  • Jennifer Mayer I have a Great Dane and 2 miniature dachshunds. I love that my Great Dane thinks she's a dachshund (lap dog!) and my dachshunds think they're Great Danes (always bossing my Dane around!) 
    4 hours ago via mobile · Unlike · 1
  • Lindsay McIntosh Gibson Revie is an 8 year old Border Collie German Shepherd mix. What I love about him is that he is incredibly smart, low energy in the house but full of get up and go for out door sports like hiking, biking, cross country skiing and his most favorite of all agility. He has the best qualities of both breeds and is so incredibly loyal and attentive and that's what I love most about him 
    4 hours ago via mobile · Unlike · 1
  • Rachel Christensen I have a hairy hairless Chinese crested named june. I love her so much because she loves me Even more, we are inseparable. I call her my ugly little princess and make fleece Jammie's for her, (she has enough clothes for her own load of laundry ) she is just about the cutest thing ever, especially when her hair is neon green, purple and blue. My favorite thing about her is when she get excited she runs with her head on the carpet and rolls and growls with herself, and when she is done her hair is standing on end with static!
    4 hours ago · Unlike · 1
  • Jessica Keto Pugsley and Daisy are Boston Terriers and I love the breed because they are so loyal and have such personality. They are constant companians and are always there. Jack is a Toy Poodle and I love him because he is so curious. He is into everything!
    4 hours ago · Unlike · 2
  • Shauna Stubberfield-Whyte My Heart Dog is Mojo, a Chinese Shar-Pei. He is my 24 hour protector and yet still greets and welcomes my grooming clients. I just have to look at him and his tail wags in greeting. He has surprised many people who have had negative prior experiences with Shar-Pei to positive.
    4 hours ago · Unlike · 1
  • Del Whitford My little 140 lb wolfdog is a wuss, but very good guard dog, as nobody gets into our bedroom at night because that is where he sleeps on his blankey at the foot of the bed which he curls up in and sucks on. Kind of embarrassing.

Written by Eric Bittman — January 25, 2013

Its A Dogs Life

What do we mean when we say "Oh, It's a Dogís Life"?

Maybe it's because the ideal dog's life is to have nothing more than a warm bed, to be fed regularly, and know that there is at least one human who cares and loves them.  Or, is it that some dogís are left out in the cold... literally! 

Knowing that you care for them, your dog is always delighted to welcome you home. A happy face, a wagging tail, in fact his whole body movement cry out, I'm so pleased to see you!          

When it comes to the sleeping arrangements, some dog owners may allow them to sleep in the same room. This suits a dog just fine, since dogs are pack animals and sleeping in the same area keeps the pack together. 

In today's society, dog's have become completely dependent on the human family. When treated properly, they will give total loyalty and so much more in return.  

They need to know who is the leader or "Alpha Dog". This is important to a pack animal, since he will naturally try to be number-one, which can become an ongoing battle if not confronted as a puppy.

Owning a pet is a lifetime commitment and not a decision to be taken lightly. This could be compared to raising children, which is always for better or worse... and definitely does not involve a local shelter after a few months.

Always think about your decision thoroughly beforehand. It is not good enough to claim that you don't want them any more or just plain changed your mind. Make very sure you know what you are letting yourself in for and how much your life WILL change!



A pet dog can improve your life in many ways, both mentally and physically. Having a dog around is a great way to relax when you're feeling tense or stressed. They seem to know when you are feeling low and try their best to help. 

Take them for a long walk or go and play ball in the park. The fresh air will do you both the world of good, it will clear your thoughts and take way the stress of the day. Watch your dog play with vigor and vitality, with not a care in the world, except to please their master.

Feeling lonely or depressed? Your dog is more tuned into you than you think and will be a faithful devoted friend. They will sense how you are feeling and try to let you know that you're not alone... in their own dog-like way! 

With a dog around, there will always be those magical moments to remember, Maybe it's their mannerisms or antics that bring a smile to your face and ultimately a warm glow in your heart. 

They find it easy to break the ice when meeting strangers... without speaking a word! Treating them with love and respect means they will communicate with us easily, forging a bond of unconditional trust. 

Observing and learning about that special bond, allows you to understand the precious gift of friendship they have to offer.

Respectful training needs to start from day one and they will grow to be a happy, contented and loyal companion for years to come.  You will become all that matters to them and they will be a pleasure to have around, mixing well within the community and loved by all.

Then there is the other end of the scale. This is where a dog's life can be very unhappy and very miserable... not loved or cared for properly.  Be honest, we've all seen dogís that are poorly kept. They are the ones living out their life on the end of a chain in a cold lonely backyard with the occasional scraps thrown out for them!

Their life is a sad continuous "yearning" to have companionship, kindness, love and care. Their lack of training and control leaves them totally confused, not sure who is boss or even what is expected of them. Just think, next time you hear a dog barking endlessly, itís their cry of sadness, loneliness and a plea for help... all they want is to be part of that home's "human pack".  

A dog asks for nothing more than being our best friend and to make our life a better one.  They donít know or ask why... they just do! 

So, when considering buying that dog, remember to take him into your family in the true sense and be his best friend... because he will certainly be yours!!

Now, back to that statement, "Oh, itís a dog's life?"  Maybe itís as simple as this... knowing your place in life, leads to contentment... given the opportunity, your dog will show you how with ease!


Written by Eric Bittman — January 25, 2013

Keeping Your Dog Healthy All Year

Pet owners know the bond that forms between people and their four-legged friends. That's why many treat their pet like a member of the family-including when it comes to health care.


Making sure your dog, cat, bird or exotic pet has proper medical care is a key component of responsible pet ownership and it's important to be aware of the costs. Americans spend almost $8.6 million on veterinary services for their pets each year, according to a report by Packaged Facts.

Here are some tips on keeping your pet healthy:

- Bored cats will pick up overeating as a hobby if food is always available.

- Just as an overweight human faces a health risk, so does an overweight cat or dog. Be sure your pet gets plenty of exercise.

- Dogs can be just as stoic about pain and wounds as people. Be alert for abnormal behavior.

- Be aware that even clean pets kept indoors can get fleas.

Fortunately, a pet insurance plan can help you pay for preventive and medical costs, and can remind you to take your pet for a checkup at the veterinarian. Owners may be reimbursed hundreds of dollars annually for preventive care.


Courtesy of evolutionsupply.com

Being fiscally prepared for any catastrophic accident or illness that might be inflicted upon your furry family member is just as important as annual visits to the veterinarian. Your pet can develop illnesses much like ones humans are susceptible to. Cancer-related claims were the third most common claim in 2004, according to Veterinary Pet Insurance, the nation's oldest and largest provider of health insurance for pets. It's also not uncommon for pets to suffer from diabetes, periodontal disease, arthritis and dozens of other ailments you insure your family against.

Medical plans that provide year-round coverage for dogs, cats, birds and pocket pets can start at less than twenty dollars a month for dogs and cats and under ten dollars monthly for pets such as reptiles. Coverage spans thousands of conditions related to accidents and illnesses and helps pay for diagnostic tests, treatments, office visits, lab fees, prescriptions, hospitalization, X-rays, and surgical procedures.

Even indoor-only pets should be protected. There is no such thing as a "pet-proofed" home. Potential hazards loom even in the best-protected homes and many pets have been injured when they accidentally escaped from the home. It is always wise to prepare for the unexpected.

Unlike your health insurance, pet insurance doesn't restrict you to certain providers or networks. For example, VPI lets pet owners visit their favorite licensed veterinarian, whether within the U.S. or other countries. That means you have the freedom to get the best care for your pet. When your pet is ill or requires emergency treatment, you won't want the additional stress of worrying about how you will pay the veterinary bill. After each veterinary visit, a claim form is submitted to the company and the pet owner is then reimbursed.

Knowing that you have taken an extra step to keep your pet healthy will provide you with peace of mind.

Written by Eric Bittman — January 09, 2013

Training Your Dog

Wanting a calm and obedient dog is important for a dog owner for a number of reasons.  Well-trained and obedient dogs are often happier and less aggressive with other dogs and people.  The law is another reason for a well-trained dog; many cities have ordinances requiring properly behaved dogs.  This is true for certain breeds that are reputed to have aggression and other behavior issues, such as Pit Bulls and Rottweilers.

Training your dog well will make him a much better family companion, especially if you have children.  Studies show that basic dog training can help to down the number of dog bites and other bad behaviors.

If you are thinking about training your dog or enlisting the help of a professional, there are certain basic commands that you and the dog should learn well in order for the dog to be considered trained.  These basic commands are:

Heel - it is important a dog learn to walk next to his owner on a loose leash, without pulling or being pulled
Respond to "no" - This can save you and your dog a lot of trouble.
Sit - This command is very basic and one of the most important.
Stay - A well-trained dog should learn to stay where you tell him.
Down - More than just a cute trick, down is a key element of a basic dog training program.  

girl training dog

There is more to dog training than teaching obedience.  Training your dog can help to create and strengthen your bond.  Because dogs are pack animals by nature, they look to a leader for guidance.  The key to successful dog training is to make sure you are the leader.  

Establishing yourself as pack leader to your dog is very important.  Each dog pack only has one leader, and in your case, it must be you, the human.  Without this, there will be many behavior issues to deal with.

A well-trained dog will respond to all of your commands, and will not be anxious, confused, or belligerent.  Any good dog training program focuses on teaching the dog what is expected of him, and will utilize positive reinforcement to reward desired behaviors.

Obedience training is not only great for you, but it helps your dog as well.  It fulfills his need for physical activity, security, and trust between you and him.  Dog training provides your dog with an important task, and a goal to reach.

Giving the dog a job can be crucial to his well-being.  Dogs were originally bred by humans complete important tasks with them and for them.  Most dogs today are merely pets, and have no important job to do.   This can lead to boredom and bad behavior.  

Basic obedience training, along with constant reinforcement of the commands can provide the dog with a task.  This is particularly crucial for high-energy breeds such as German Shepherds and Border Collies.  Conducting training sessions with breeds such as these is ideal for letting these high-energy dogs expend their energy and have fun with you at the same time.

Making your training sessions fun is a great way to prevent boredom for both you and the dog.  Playing with your dog while training him strengthen the bond of love and trust between you ñ the pack leader ñ and your dog.

Written by Eric Bittman — December 26, 2012