Facts About Spaying and Neutering

*Between 3-4 million adoptable animals are euthanized in animal shelters because they can't find new homes. Unplanned litters have led to these high numbers in euthanized animals, they could have been prevented by spaying and neutering.
*Spaying and neutering reduces the number of stray animals on the streets.
*Spaying is the removal of a female animal's reproductive organs. Neutering is the removal of a male animal's reproductive organs.
*Pets should be spayed or neutered before 6 months of age for males and before the first heat of a female.
* Spaying and neutering reduces the risk of your pet getting the most common types of cancer. So, fixing your pet will lead to a more healthier and happier life for your pet.
*The surgery can only be performed by licensed veterinarians.
*The cost of spaying or neutering your pet is less than the cost of raising puppies or kittens for a year.
* 78% of dogs and 88% of cats are spayed or neutered.
*Spaying or neutering does NOT make your pet overweight. Overfeeding and the lack of exercise will make your pet gain weight.
*Early neutering prevents aggression in dogs and unwanted marking in the house.

Source: www.dosomething.org

The Australian Shepherd

The Australian Shepherd is also known as the Aussie. It is a  robust and medium sized dog. They are easy going dogs that have a puppy-like behavior their whole life. They are courageous and make great watch dogs. They are great with children because they love to play. They are attentive, intelligent, and eager to please, making them easy to train. They are gentle with humans. They require a lot exercise and something to keep their mind busy or they will develop behavior problems.Daily walks, bike rides or jogs are needed to keep this dog healthy physically and mentally.  Some Aussies nip at your heels as an act of herding, this behavior must be corrected right away. They are usually not dog aggressive if they are socialized as a puppy. Males dogs are 20-23 inches tall and weigh 50-65 pounds. Females are 18-21 inches tall and are 40-55 pounds. They need to have a large yard and are not recommended too live in apartments. They live 12-15 years. They are easy to groom and are an average shedder. Make sure that when you are looking at puppies that they are not blind or deaf because this is a common health problem in the breed. Some are prone to hip displaysia.

 

 

Information is from www.dogbreedinfo.com and images are from Google.

Please Don't Leave Your Dog In The Car!

It's summertime and that means very hot weather for many of us! It's been up to 102 degrees here!
Please don't leave your dog inside of the car while you go shopping. When the temperature is above 70 degrees farenheit the inside of a parked car can reach 120-175 dgerees even with the windows cracked. 
It doesn't matter if you park in the shade or if you leave the air conditioning on, a parked car can still get as hot as an oven.
Animals can suffer from heat stroke. If you see an animal locked in a car on a hot day (above 70 degrees) tell the store manager. If no one claims the animal and it's panting really hard or collapsing call the police, animal control, or the humane society to get it out. You can make flyers and pass them out at stores or put them on car windows. It is better to leave your dog at home then to risk his life by leaving him in the car.

AKC Agility Nationals

I went to the AKC Agility Nationals with the 4-H Dog Club. It was very neat watching all of the dogs run through the agility course. They were so fast and funny at times. It taught me a lot about dog agility and I know some things I need to work on with Roxy. I am thinking about showing Roxy in the AKC agility after we get some more practice. I just need to get her to run it off leash and we'll be good. Agility is a fun sport between the owner and the dog. The owner leads the dog through the course where the dog must jump over jumps, go through tunnel, jump through the tire, go on the see-saw, run up the dog walk and A- frame, go through weave poles, and through the chute. I have been competing with Roxy in 4-H. She made it around the course in 31 seconds! It was the fastest time out of all of the dogs that competed that day. I think we are ready if only I can get her to go off leash! These pictures are from Google images. I will post pictures of the show we went to later on!

Save A Life- Adopt a Shelter Pet!

I know I have posted many things like this. If you or your family are looking for a pet, check out your local animal shelters! You can find the perfect match! Puppies and kittens are cute, but remember that shelter dogs and cats need someone to love them and take them home also. Puppies from pet stores are a bad idea because most come from puppy mills( see my Say No to Pet Stores post). Dogs from breeders usualy find homes pretty fast and they get to live in a home until they are bought.Give them a second chance! There are so many animals at the shelters that are just waiting to leave. Some don't get a second chance. You can save a life today.You don't have to buy a purebred dog to show in the AKC. The American Kennel Club now has a program for owners and their mixed breed friends to compete called AKC Partners program. Go to http://www.akc.org/mixedbreeds/ to find out more about the AKC Partners Program! Adopt now!

The Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier is a small, toy sized dog. The tail is usually docked. They have long, glossy, silky coats.Yorkshire terriers( yorkie) love adventure. They are highly energetic, brave, loyal, and clever. They are affectionate to their owners and make great companions. They can become suspicious of strangers and aggressive towards other dogs and small animals. They can become yappy when they want to tell you what they want to do. They need someone who understands how to be their leader. They are recommended for families with older children in the home. Many people let this type of breed get away with bad behaviors because they are small. Yorkies can become demanding and need a lot of attention. They become jealous if they aren't getting enough attention. They are easy to train, but can be stubborn if the owner does not give the dog proper boundaries. They can be difficult to potty train. They are excellent watchdogs. If they are allowed to take over they will develop negative behaviors. They are active dogs who require daily walks. They enjoy being played with and running off leash in a fenced area. Their life expectancy is about 12-15 years. Regular grooming is required to keep a healthy coat. Thier coats should be clipped and needs daily brushing. They should have their teeth brushed regularly. They shed little to no hair. They belong to the AKC toy group.
Height: 6-7 inches
Weight: 7 pounds
Health Problems:
Yorkies are prone to slipped stifle, bronchitis, eye infections, early tooth decay, poor tolerance of anaesthetic, and delicate digestion.They sometimes suffer of paralysis in the hindquarters. Falls or knocks can cause fractures to their fragile bones. Females usually have trouble delivering puppies. They can develop abnormal skull formations if they measure less than 8 inches. They should be given bones and dry food to keep their teeth strong. They also should be taken to the vet to get their teeth cleaned in order to prevent their teeth from falling out and infection.
Living Conditions:
The Yorkshire Terrier make great apartment pets. They are sensitive to the cold and prefer warm temperatures.
Information found at:
http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/yorkshireterrier.htm

*This information is based on opinion. All dogs are different and behaviors can not be determined by the breed.

The Miniature Schnauzer

The Miniature Schnauzer is a small, sturdy little dog. Their ears are often cropped and their tails are docked. They have a bushy beard, mustache, and eyebrows. Their coat colors are black, white, salt and pepper, and black and silver. The Miniature Schnauzer is an intelligent, loving, and happy dog. They are energetic, playful, and love to be with their owners. They are affectionate, keen, devoted, and docile. If they are socialized well they may get along with other dogs easily. They are great companions and family pets. They can be stronger minded than their owner and will not listen if this is the case. Owners need to be calm, but firm with this type of breed. They have a low, carried out howl of a voice. They are great guard dogs and vermin hunters. They are easy travel dogs. They are great with children. If they aren't socialized well enough with people, they can be reserved with strangers. The humans must be strong pack leaders and they will have obedient dogs. They need daily long or brisk walks or jogs. Dogs who do not go on walks are known to develop behavior problems. Their life expectancy is about 15 years. They don't show signs of aging until late in their life. They are not hard to groom, but do need grooming attention. Their coats should be clipped at least twice a year (spring and fall). Any mats in their coats must be cut out. The hair around the eyes and ears should be trimmed and the whiskers should be cleaned after meals. This dog sheds little to no hair and they are great for people with allergies. They belong to the AKC terrier group.
Height: 12-14 inches
Weight: 10-15 pounds
Health Problems:
They are prone to liver disease, kidney stones, diabetes, skin disorders, von Willebrand's disease, cysts, and hereditary eye problems. They gain weight very fast, so do not overfeed.
Living conditions:
Great dog for apartment life. They will be calm as long as they are exercised regularly.
Picture was found at

www.akc.org



Information found at
http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/miniatureschnauzer.htm

*This information is based on opinion. All dogs are different and behaviors can not be determined by the breed.

The American Pit Bull Terrier

The American Pit Bull Terrier strikes many as a dog of power, passion, and willingness. The ears are usually cropped, but this is an option of the owner/breeder. The American Pit Bull Terrier has a pleasure to please their owners. These dogs are NOT people haters or people eaters. Their natural aggressive tendencies are towards other animals and dogs, but not people. Although, if they are socialized in their puppyhood then they may not be aggresive towards other animals and dogs. They need to be socialized with a firm, confident, calm , and consistent pack leader. They can be willful with an owner who is weak, so they must have a firm owner. They are good natured, amusing, extremely loyal, and affectionate dogs. They make great family pets. They have a high pain tolerance and will put up with rough child play.  They are very intelligent and obedient. They want to always please their owners. They are courageous guard dogs.  They are highly protective over their owners and their property and will fight an enemy.  They are generally okay with family pets if they are raised with them from puppyhood. They are very friendly, but are not recommended for people who don't know how to properly raise and treat a dog. Problems will start if one does not understand dog psychology and they end up with a dog who thinks he's the boss of the house. This is a very powerful dog and one should not allow it to take control of the house. As with every dog, training, exercise, and a firm pack leader will produce an obedient dog. Make sure to socialize your pit bull with other dogs while they are young. Always keep the dog under control when other dogs are present. Their life expectancy is about 12 years. They are easy to groom and are average shedders. They belong to the AKC Terrier group.
Height: 14-24 inches
Weight: 22-78 pounds
Health Problems:
They are prone to hip displaysia, hereditary cataracts, allergies to grass, and congenital heart disease.
Living Conditions:
Pit bulls will do well in apartment living if exercised regularly. They are highly active indoors. They prefer warm climates. They must be taken on long daily walks even if they don't live in an apartment.

This information was found at:
http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/americanpitbull.htm

*This information is based on opinion. All dogs are different and behaviors can not be determined by the breed.

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a long, but short dog. The dog is sometimes born without a tail. Otherwise, their tails are docked as soon as possible.  They are highly intelligent, loyal, and willing to please their owners. They are active and are good with children as long as the dog knows it's place in the pack. They are protective, which makes them great guard dogs. They make excellent show and obedience dogs. The Pembroke Welsh Corgi are known to "herd" their humans by nipping at the heels, they can and should be trained no to do this at a young age. They tend to bark a lot, this behavior may be corrected as well. Their life expectancy is 12-15 years. They are easy to groom. Their coat is shed twice a year. They are in the AKC herding group.
Height-
Males: 10-12 inches
Females: 10-12 inches
Weight-
Males: 25-30 pounds
Females: 24- 28 pounds
Health Problems:
They are prone to PRA, glaucoma, and back disorders. They gain weight easily. If they become overwieght, they can develop back disorders.
Living Conditions:
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi can be kept in an apartment if they are exercised regularly. If they aren't exercised then they will be very active. They can also live without a yard if exercised.

Information found at : http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/pembrokecorgi.htm
The picture was found at:
http://www.google.com/imgres?q=pembroke+welsh+corgi&um=1&hl=en&sa=N&qscrl=1&nord=1&rlz=1T4DKUS_enUS300US301&biw=1280&bih=661&tbm=isch&tbnid=OC9KXhclSgAuVM:&imgrefurl=http://dogbreedtrainings.com/welsh-corgi-pembroke/welsh-corgi-pembroke-puppies/&docid=Ex-ayCZd779BNM&imgurl=http://dogbreedtrainings.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/Welsh-Corgi-Pembroke-puppies-5.jpg&w=429&h=367&ei=sXYEUJ2bCaec2AW20MmTBQ&zoom=1

*This information is based on opinion. All dogs are different and behaviors can not be determined by the breed.

The Maltese

Maltese
Maltese Puppy

The Maltese in in the toy group. They're are hardy dogs. They usually have a silky coat. Their hair can grow to 81/2 inches, if not cut. They are loving, playful, intelligent, and loyal to their masters. They do well with other pets. They may be difficult to housebreak, but they love to be outside. If they get fed from the table, they will become picky about what they eat. Male Maltese get to 8-10 inches in height. Females get to 8-9 inches in height. They both weigh 61/2 to 9 pounds. They can have teeth and digestion problems. They also can get sunburn, eye , and respiratory problems. They don't do well in hot weather. They are good for urban living. They live about 15-18 years. They need daily exercise and grooming. They originated from Italy. Do you think the Maltese is the right dog for you?
This info was found @ http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/

The Pug

Adult Pug
Pug puppy

The pug is in the toy group.It has a short muzzled face. Their colors are fawn,apricot black and silver. They came to the United States from China. They are strong- willed and are suitable for a family with children. They are happy- go lucky and loving. They are easy to train. They are playful and rambunctious. They get along with other dogs and people. You have to be sure to be the leader, because if you're not they will become the leader themselves. They make good watchdogs, because they are always alert. They suffer from hip dysplesia, inflammation of the brain and meninges, hemivertebrae, Pharyngeal Gag Reflex, Demodectic mange, eye injuries,obesity and overheating. Males get to 12-14 inches in height and 13-20 pounds in weight. Females get 10-12 inches in height and 13-18 pounds in weight. They are good for urban living. They need walks daily. The more exercise the better health the dog will be in when he/she gets older.They live 12-15 years old. The pug is one of the oldest breeds known today. I used to have a purebred pug and I have a pug mix toady. They are awesome dogs and are little clowns at times. They are great family pets, but need to be socialized at young age as any dog. If you think this would be your perfect pup, go look for one today!!!
Information found@ http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/ and http://www.en.wikepedia.org/

I am a Dog

This picture is not mine.

I made this poem up one day. I thought I would share:

I am a dog. Don't leave me in the fog.

I have no fear when you are near.

But when you leave me in the rain it brings me much pain.

I will fall for my ball.

I want to chase a squirrel. I guess I'll give it a whirl.

I need you and never want to leave you.

When I bug you it's just because I love you.

I bark because I want to go to the park.

So don't beat me. Just treat me.

I am a dog.

A Chained Dogs Life

This is a sad video about chained dogs in PA. You can check it out at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SudZpI0z6RU&feature=player_embedded . I got this video off of Dogs Deserve Better website. www.dogsdeservebetter.com .

Too Hot For Spot

Now that summer is near, we need to take care of our hot dogs and other pets that may get over heated.

Did you know?

1. When the temperature outside is above 70 degrees, the inside of a parked car can reach 120-175 degrees within minutes even with the windows cracked.


2. Even in the shade a car can get as hot as an oven.


3. Even if the air conditioning is on, hot air swiftly replaces the cold.


4. Animals left in a car can suffer serious , sometimes fatal, heat-stroke.
5. Dogs sweat only through their footpads and through their mouths by panting.

What You can Do

1. Never leave an animal parked in the car, even for a few minutes.
2. Watch for animals in cars on hot days, if the animal doesn't look too well call the humane society.
3. If a car is parked outside of a large store, ask a manager to make an announcement. Many dogs have been saved by this.
4. Ask radio stations to make announcements about leaving your dog in a car on the radio.
5. Dogs aren't the only animals that need a chill in the summer. Birds and rabbits may need your help to cool off too. Look out for dogs on chains or rabbits in cages that look like they may not be getting fresh water daily. Remind the owners politely to fill the animal's water and to make sure they keep it up.You can also make a birdbath out of a baking pan, but make sure that you keep the water clean.

Family Dog

The family's dog was bought to guard. Chained to a post in a chilly backyard.Housed in a shed that was airless and dark, and every few weeks had a run in the park.When boredom set in with no fun and work,One day it broke loose and went quietly berserk.Pa couldn't fathom just why it went wild.As it flattened his wife and then bit his child.The police were called to sort out the mess.And the whole sorry story was revealed in the press.The rescue society was really annoyed,So the dog was re-homed, and the owners destroyed.


This poem tells how bad chaining a dog is. You should take care of it properly.What's the sense in having a dog if you have it in the backyard or in the garage chained? Please be respectful to your dog,community,and neighbors and take care of your dog the correct way. Poem found at http://www.wolfweb.com/

Look me over!!!

You should look over your new companion before you make your decision. You want to make sure you get a healthy pet. Here are some things to look for when you are buying from a breeder.

1.The puppy's eyes should be clear,no discharge or excessive tearing.

2.The coat should be shiny,no hair loss,sores,or redness.

3.The ears should be clean.If you see the pup shaking his head or pawing his ears he probably has ear mites.

4.There should be no discharge from the nose.Beware of dogs that are coughing or sneezing.

5.Do a flea check.

6.Pup's gums should be pink and his teeth should be straight.

7.Diarrhea is a bad sign. Make sure there is no diarrhea around.

The German Shepherd

A military dog in training.

Looks like this guy is doing his job.

A Geman Shepherd Puppy.

The German Shepherd dog belongs in the working group. It is a great guard dog and a perfect companion. They are very strong and well proportioned. Their ears are pointed straight up,but as puppies the ears may be a little floppy.They have long bushy tails.The breed has three types of coats; rough-coated, long-haired, and long rough coated. The colors are usually black and tan,sable,or all black.White color is a fault at the dog show and these white shepherds are known as the American White Shepherd. These dogs are fearless and always alert,but at the same time obedient and happy.German Sheperds love their families,but may be aware of strangers. For this reason, they need a family that will be with them a lot. They usually only bark when they feel danger is near. They are often used as police dogs. As with all dogs,they should be correctly socialized in puppy hood. Attacks and aggression are usually due to poor handling and training. You HAVE to be the dominant one when you have a German Shepherd. They are known to be good with other pets and children.They are energetic and need daily exercise. Males get 24-26 inches in height.Females 22-24 inches in height. Both genders weigh about 77-85 pounds. 13 years is the life expectancy.

The Rescue

This poem is found@ http://www.scarshelter.com/

Her eyes met mine as she walked down the corridor peering apprehensively into the kennels.I felt her need instantly and new I had to help her. I wagged my tail, not to exuberantly,so she wouldn't be afraid. As she stopped at my kennel I blocked her view from a little accident I had in the back of my cage.I didn't want her to know that I hadn't been walked today. Sometimes the shelter keepers get to busy and I didn't want her to think poorly of them. As she read my kennel card I hoped she wouldn't feel sad about my past. I only have the future to look forward to and want to make a difference in some one's life. She got down on her knees and made little kissy sounds at me. I shoved my shoulder and side of my head up against the kennel to comfort her. gentle fingertips caressed the side of my neck,she was desperate for companionship. A tear fell down her cheek and I raised my paw to assure her that all would be well. Soon my kennel door opened and her smile was so bright that I instantly jumped into her arms. I would promise to keep her safe. I would promise to always be by her side. I would promise to do everything I could to see that radiant smile and sparkle in her eyes.I was so fortunate that she came down my corridor. So many more are out there who haven't walked out of their kennels.So many more to be saved. At least I could save one. I rescued a human today!!

petcentric - Critter Carols

petcentric - Critter Carols

Come make your dog sing a Christmas Carol!!!

The Great Dane

Grace Dane the founder of The Three Dog Bakery.

A Great Dane Puppy.

A Great Dane compared to a Chihuahua.

The Great Dane is known as a gentle giant. These dogs are strong, but elegant and have a great personality. They are energetic dogs and are great for families. Like all dogs, they should be supervised around small dogs and young children. They don't require a lot of grooming because they have short hair but giving this dog a bath can be a CHORE. They are working dogs in the AKC. Males are 30 inches tall and females are 28 inches tall. They are good guard dogs,but shouldn't be used only for guarding. This breed NEEDS to be with humans. These dogs are never timid or aggressive. They are playful and patient with children. Adult males can weigh 120 pounds to 200 pounds and females 100-130 pounds. They shouldn't be ran with until they are at least 1 year old because they can suffer from hip displaysia. They can also suffer from bloat, heart disease, tumors and tail injuries. The Great Dane will do well in an apartment if exercised everyday. They are usually best with a large yard though. Most Danes live to be under 10 years old,but if cared for properly and no health problems they can live to as old as 12-13 years old. This breed will be good a good choice if your family has older kids because of the dog's size.