There are many people who want to adopt these cute little pets but want to know what the link is between Salmonella and turtles. Most are probably already aware of the Salmonella threat that lies in turtles. The same people may wonder if there is a way to find a turtle without it, or possibly rid them of it by cleaning.
Unfortunately, most turtle lovers will find themselves out of luck as turtles carry non-typhoid Salmonella (the leading cause of food infection) on their shells and skin as a part of their natural bacterial make-up. It's something that they're born with. Most cases of Salmonella caused by turtles were more often those with weakened immune systems, such as the ill or elderly, and children.
When you understand the connection between Salmonella and turtles and you still wish to adopt a turtle as a pet, the most you can do is to handle it carefully. Wash your hands after touching it, keep it out of the kitchen and away from food, do not bathe it in a kitchen or bathroom sink or a bathtub, and keep it in its cage most of the time. Also, try to keep smaller children away from it, as they may try to kiss it, or if young enough, even eat the turtle.
If you manage to follow those simple guidelines and have done your research, you can still choose to adopt one. Just remember that the risk of Salmonella and turtles will always be there. If you have a pet turtle already and feel you may have it, here are some commonly reported symptoms of Salmonella poisoning:
Nausea and Vomiting
Diarrhea (in some cases, bloody)
Stomach and Abdominal Cramping
Fever and Headache
These are signs that should begin to appear a few days after infection. Though your immune system can kill it, check in with a doctor when the symptoms emerge, especially if it worsens or feels prolonged.
On a more encouraging note, there are turtles that carry less Salmonella than others. Just be selective about which one you get. And the majority of cases reported of Salmonella and turtles were concerning young children. If you are old enough and capable, and do not have a young child living with you, you have a better chance of not getting infected. Just continue to do your best to follow the safety tips.
Turner is a professional writer, you can check out his most recent work on best popcorn maker by visiting his latest site on salton popcorn maker.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Turner_McCorn
The Russian Turtle (Tortoise) - Is This the Pet Turtle For You?
Do you have a passion for turtles but don't know which type of turtle to buy as a pet? Why not take some time to do a little online research, or ask people who can offer professional opinions regarding the most common turtle species kept as pets. This will give you an overview as to their lifestyle patterns and behavior traits. Most of all, you will not risk losing the life of your beloved pets because you bought them without first acquiring the knowledge required to properly care for them.
The Russian Turtle is one of the most common and well-loved turtle species kept as pets. This type of turtle is quite small compared to others, with its adult females reaching only eight to ten inches in the length of their shells, and the adult male growing from six to eight inches in length. Their carapace is marked with various colors of tan, olive, and yellowish green, and their plastron is covered with brown and black blotches. The rear scutes, on either side of the tail, are enlarged and may even be slightly serrated, more often in males than females.
The lifespan of this turtle species may reach up to 100 years, especially when properly cared for. Most other turtles do not live this long, whether in the wild or in captivity. The vast majority of these turtles are caught in the wild. It is therefore extremely important to bring them to the veterinarian immediately after purchase, so that they may be thoroughly checked for any parasites and diseases that they may be carrying, and which are invisible to the naked eye.
This type of turtle is also commonly called the Central Asian Tortoise, Four Toed Tortoise, Horsefield's Tortoise, or Afghan Tortoise. Russian turtles are amenable to dry habitats, however they are not suitable to be kept indoors. When preparing their outdoor housing, make sure that you mimic the surroundings they would have in the wild. They are native to Russia, North Western China, Kazakhstan, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Azerbaijan. This species loves to burrow, so you must provide them with a deeper substrate in their enclosure. Furthermore, fill their outdoor tank with abundant hay or grass, and provide a newspaper underneath for easy cleaning and maintenance. You must also provide one shallow water dish. This is not only necessary for your turtles to drink and hydrate themselves, but for bathing and soaking purposes as well. Their dormancy period is during the winter season, and they must be well nourished prior to their hibernation.
The ideal temperature for their habitat should be between 70°F to 80°F during the daytime, and 65°F to 75°F at night. The temperature for their basking area should ideally be kept around 85°F. When feeding your Russian Turtle, provide clover and grasses regularly. Give them fruits in moderation, so as to avoid digestion problems. Their diet must be largely composed of calcium and fiber, with low protein levels.
This is a beautiful and well-loved species, requiring proper care and attention, like any other living creature. However turtle keepers, especially beginners, should not only provide proper care for their turtles, but must ensure their own safety as well. Tortoises and turtles are carriers of salmonella, therefore it is highly recommended that you thoroughly wash your hands after touching or handling them. Most importantly, for your children's safety, never allow them to come too close to or make contact with your Russian turtle, or any other species of turtle you may be keeping as a pet.
Karma Williams is a pet turtle care enthusiast who has raised turtles for over 23 years, and enjoys helping others get started in this amazing hobby. You can discover more about turtles by visiting the turtle age and turtle hibernation pages of her website. Her newest eBook entitled "The Ultimate Guide to Pet Turtle Care" teaches turtle lovers everything they need to know about acquiring, caring for, and feeding pet turtles so that they stay healthy, contented, and will thrive for years and years to come!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Karma_Williams
The Russian Turtle is one of the most common and well-loved turtle species kept as pets. This type of turtle is quite small compared to others, with its adult females reaching only eight to ten inches in the length of their shells, and the adult male growing from six to eight inches in length. Their carapace is marked with various colors of tan, olive, and yellowish green, and their plastron is covered with brown and black blotches. The rear scutes, on either side of the tail, are enlarged and may even be slightly serrated, more often in males than females.
The lifespan of this turtle species may reach up to 100 years, especially when properly cared for. Most other turtles do not live this long, whether in the wild or in captivity. The vast majority of these turtles are caught in the wild. It is therefore extremely important to bring them to the veterinarian immediately after purchase, so that they may be thoroughly checked for any parasites and diseases that they may be carrying, and which are invisible to the naked eye.
This type of turtle is also commonly called the Central Asian Tortoise, Four Toed Tortoise, Horsefield's Tortoise, or Afghan Tortoise. Russian turtles are amenable to dry habitats, however they are not suitable to be kept indoors. When preparing their outdoor housing, make sure that you mimic the surroundings they would have in the wild. They are native to Russia, North Western China, Kazakhstan, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Azerbaijan. This species loves to burrow, so you must provide them with a deeper substrate in their enclosure. Furthermore, fill their outdoor tank with abundant hay or grass, and provide a newspaper underneath for easy cleaning and maintenance. You must also provide one shallow water dish. This is not only necessary for your turtles to drink and hydrate themselves, but for bathing and soaking purposes as well. Their dormancy period is during the winter season, and they must be well nourished prior to their hibernation.
The ideal temperature for their habitat should be between 70°F to 80°F during the daytime, and 65°F to 75°F at night. The temperature for their basking area should ideally be kept around 85°F. When feeding your Russian Turtle, provide clover and grasses regularly. Give them fruits in moderation, so as to avoid digestion problems. Their diet must be largely composed of calcium and fiber, with low protein levels.
This is a beautiful and well-loved species, requiring proper care and attention, like any other living creature. However turtle keepers, especially beginners, should not only provide proper care for their turtles, but must ensure their own safety as well. Tortoises and turtles are carriers of salmonella, therefore it is highly recommended that you thoroughly wash your hands after touching or handling them. Most importantly, for your children's safety, never allow them to come too close to or make contact with your Russian turtle, or any other species of turtle you may be keeping as a pet.
Karma Williams is a pet turtle care enthusiast who has raised turtles for over 23 years, and enjoys helping others get started in this amazing hobby. You can discover more about turtles by visiting the turtle age and turtle hibernation pages of her website. Her newest eBook entitled "The Ultimate Guide to Pet Turtle Care" teaches turtle lovers everything they need to know about acquiring, caring for, and feeding pet turtles so that they stay healthy, contented, and will thrive for years and years to come!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Karma_Williams
Turtle Aquariums - A Turtle Tank Setup Differs From a Fish Tank!
The home of your turtle is referred to as the housing or habitat, one of the vital necessities of your pet. There are two main types, namely indoor, referred to as a turtle aquarium, and outdoor housing, often a garden pond. Although the indoor enclosure has similarities with the fish aquarium, it is not the same. Novice turtle keepers should keep this information in mind.
One of the most important differences between the two is the water level containment. Fish are aquatic creatures surviving in water alone, while turtles need both land and water. For this reason, fish tanks are filled completely with water, while turtle tanks are only half filled. Different turtle species require their own precise amounts of water according to their size, and these amounts must be accurately calculated and rigorously maintained. Watch your turtle - it should have a high enough level of water to enjoy swimming, but the turtle should also be able to stand in some shallow areas of water, and have a rock or log to climb out and bask on to dry off.
When purchasing a turtle aquarium, make sure that you consider the size your turtle will grow into as an adult. Turtles normally grow three to even four times their infant length as they mature. Therefore, the most ideal aquarium size for your pets is three to four times the length or size of the biggest turtle. The tank width must be twice as large, and the height should ideally be 1.5 to two times its length. Furthermore, choose a tank which is eight to 12 inches above the highest point the turtle can reach in order to prevent it from climbing out and escaping.
When buying turtle tank accessories, make sure that the welfare and safety of your turtle is prioritized. Never consider placing any rough stones in the aquarium, for they may potentially injure your pets. Select smooth stones instead. Stones which are found on roadsides must be sterilized before placing them inside the tank. All other store-bought accessories should be cleaned every week to ten days. An easy way to stick to your cleaning schedule is to take out and disinfect the accessories when you change your tank water.
Create an elevated place to allow your turtle to bask, either by piling smooth rocks or aquarium gravel on one side of the turtle tank. Other materials to use to create or enhance this basking area are Styrofoam(TM) or floating cork, to improvise a bridge or plastic raft. The other side of the tank should be used for swimming holes.
A proper filtration system is likewise a necessity. When you make sure that the cleanliness and sanitation of the tank are maintained, you insure the health of your pet. An ideal power filter, which you can submerge in the water, is recommended. This submersible filtration system makes use of foam as the means of filtering. Rinse the foam using cool and clean water every week.
The purchasing and setting up of the turtle's aquarium are the most important tasks for beginner turtle keepers. Make sure that before you acquire a pet turtle, you are ready to give it proper housing the moment you bring it home. Remember, the best habitats for turtles are the ones that meet their daily needs by mimicking their habitat conditions in the wild. Your turtle needs space, soil, plants, food, water, and proper temperature control to ensure a long and healthy life.
Karma Williams is a pet turtle care enthusiast who has raised turtles for over 23 years, and enjoys helping others get started in this amazing hobby. You can discover more by visiting the turtle information and labeled drawing pages of her website. Her newest eBook entitled "The Ultimate Guide to Pet Turtle Care" teaches turtle lovers everything they need to know about acquiring, caring for, and feeding pet turtles so that they stay healthy, contented, and will thrive for years and years to come!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Karma_Williams
One of the most important differences between the two is the water level containment. Fish are aquatic creatures surviving in water alone, while turtles need both land and water. For this reason, fish tanks are filled completely with water, while turtle tanks are only half filled. Different turtle species require their own precise amounts of water according to their size, and these amounts must be accurately calculated and rigorously maintained. Watch your turtle - it should have a high enough level of water to enjoy swimming, but the turtle should also be able to stand in some shallow areas of water, and have a rock or log to climb out and bask on to dry off.
When purchasing a turtle aquarium, make sure that you consider the size your turtle will grow into as an adult. Turtles normally grow three to even four times their infant length as they mature. Therefore, the most ideal aquarium size for your pets is three to four times the length or size of the biggest turtle. The tank width must be twice as large, and the height should ideally be 1.5 to two times its length. Furthermore, choose a tank which is eight to 12 inches above the highest point the turtle can reach in order to prevent it from climbing out and escaping.
When buying turtle tank accessories, make sure that the welfare and safety of your turtle is prioritized. Never consider placing any rough stones in the aquarium, for they may potentially injure your pets. Select smooth stones instead. Stones which are found on roadsides must be sterilized before placing them inside the tank. All other store-bought accessories should be cleaned every week to ten days. An easy way to stick to your cleaning schedule is to take out and disinfect the accessories when you change your tank water.
Create an elevated place to allow your turtle to bask, either by piling smooth rocks or aquarium gravel on one side of the turtle tank. Other materials to use to create or enhance this basking area are Styrofoam(TM) or floating cork, to improvise a bridge or plastic raft. The other side of the tank should be used for swimming holes.
A proper filtration system is likewise a necessity. When you make sure that the cleanliness and sanitation of the tank are maintained, you insure the health of your pet. An ideal power filter, which you can submerge in the water, is recommended. This submersible filtration system makes use of foam as the means of filtering. Rinse the foam using cool and clean water every week.
The purchasing and setting up of the turtle's aquarium are the most important tasks for beginner turtle keepers. Make sure that before you acquire a pet turtle, you are ready to give it proper housing the moment you bring it home. Remember, the best habitats for turtles are the ones that meet their daily needs by mimicking their habitat conditions in the wild. Your turtle needs space, soil, plants, food, water, and proper temperature control to ensure a long and healthy life.
Karma Williams is a pet turtle care enthusiast who has raised turtles for over 23 years, and enjoys helping others get started in this amazing hobby. You can discover more by visiting the turtle information and labeled drawing pages of her website. Her newest eBook entitled "The Ultimate Guide to Pet Turtle Care" teaches turtle lovers everything they need to know about acquiring, caring for, and feeding pet turtles so that they stay healthy, contented, and will thrive for years and years to come!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Karma_Williams
Leash Training Dogs - 4 Dead Simple Steps to Stop Your Dog From Pulling on the Leash!
Leash training dogs is one of the first things you need to do if you want to walk your dog regularly. Without it you will not get any pleasure out of regular walks with your pet and will probably abandon this idea within a month or so. However, if one knows the right training methods it is possible to leash train your dog to such a level that both of you will look forwards to this activity.
Leash Training Dogs Step 1 - Choose The Right Collar
One of the first things you need to know while leash training dogs is to use a standard leather collar instead of a choke one. You want to make sure that your dog feels comfortable while wearing collar and that it doesn't hurt him. Try putting it on while he's playing or eating so that he's distracted from the fact that you're attaching an alien item to his body. Next, connect the collar with a leash and let your dog run freely with both of them until he forgets that there is something attached to his neck.
Leash Training Dogs Step 2 - Before You Take Him On A Walk...
Second step in leash training dogs is to take your dog outside. Grab the leash and make sure your dog is not jumping around and pulling you towards the door. If he does simply stop and wait for him to calm down. It can take 30 seconds or 10 minutes but be patient. Your dog needs to understand that he will not go anywhere if he doesn't stop wriggling. At the beginning take your dog to the place that he's familiar with and won't get distracted by passing cars or new people (for example your driveway).
Leash Training Dogs Step 3 - Let's Go On A Walk!
Leash training dogs is all about repetition and patience. The third step involves repeating the same thing over and over again until your dog understands the rules. Make one step and wait for your pet to join you. As soon as he does tell him to sit and reward with a treat. Make another step and once again, call your dog so that he can join you. If he tries to run somewhere else and pulls on the leash stop and tell him to come back. Again, praise him and reward for slacking the leash. You can increase the number of steps as soon as your dog starts to consistently follow your one step moves and sit when you stop.
Leash Training Dogs Step 4 - How To Make Sure That Your Pet Learned The Lesson?
Now that you know the basics of leash training dogs you can set out on a proper walk around your neighborhood. Every time your dog pulls you towards something stop and tell him to come back. You will only reward him for following your steps with a slack leash. Try changing the direction you move in rapidly and see if the dog follows. The leash can get tense only for a fraction of second, time required for your dog to acknowledge the fact and adjust his route accordingly. He needs to understand that the only chance for him to move forward is by following your steps and listening to your commands.
Now, I know how annoying it is to be walked by your dog instead of walking him. You probably got used to being pulled all over the place every time he spots something interesting. However, there is a great guide dedicated to solving this problem and you can access it instantly at http://www.IWantToTrainMyDog.info This is the exact method I used to leash train my pet and I vouch for it.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Pawel_Kalkus
Leash Training Dogs Step 1 - Choose The Right Collar
One of the first things you need to know while leash training dogs is to use a standard leather collar instead of a choke one. You want to make sure that your dog feels comfortable while wearing collar and that it doesn't hurt him. Try putting it on while he's playing or eating so that he's distracted from the fact that you're attaching an alien item to his body. Next, connect the collar with a leash and let your dog run freely with both of them until he forgets that there is something attached to his neck.
Leash Training Dogs Step 2 - Before You Take Him On A Walk...
Second step in leash training dogs is to take your dog outside. Grab the leash and make sure your dog is not jumping around and pulling you towards the door. If he does simply stop and wait for him to calm down. It can take 30 seconds or 10 minutes but be patient. Your dog needs to understand that he will not go anywhere if he doesn't stop wriggling. At the beginning take your dog to the place that he's familiar with and won't get distracted by passing cars or new people (for example your driveway).
Leash Training Dogs Step 3 - Let's Go On A Walk!
Leash training dogs is all about repetition and patience. The third step involves repeating the same thing over and over again until your dog understands the rules. Make one step and wait for your pet to join you. As soon as he does tell him to sit and reward with a treat. Make another step and once again, call your dog so that he can join you. If he tries to run somewhere else and pulls on the leash stop and tell him to come back. Again, praise him and reward for slacking the leash. You can increase the number of steps as soon as your dog starts to consistently follow your one step moves and sit when you stop.
Leash Training Dogs Step 4 - How To Make Sure That Your Pet Learned The Lesson?
Now that you know the basics of leash training dogs you can set out on a proper walk around your neighborhood. Every time your dog pulls you towards something stop and tell him to come back. You will only reward him for following your steps with a slack leash. Try changing the direction you move in rapidly and see if the dog follows. The leash can get tense only for a fraction of second, time required for your dog to acknowledge the fact and adjust his route accordingly. He needs to understand that the only chance for him to move forward is by following your steps and listening to your commands.
Now, I know how annoying it is to be walked by your dog instead of walking him. You probably got used to being pulled all over the place every time he spots something interesting. However, there is a great guide dedicated to solving this problem and you can access it instantly at http://www.IWantToTrainMyDog.info This is the exact method I used to leash train my pet and I vouch for it.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Pawel_Kalkus
Problems Of Old Age In Dogs
Pets especially dogs easily become the part of family member. As you love and care your family members, in the same way you need to care your dog. Dogs are the most loved pets and you will find happy when your dog is healthy and fit. But with the age, there are many problems seen in the dogs.
When your dog is correctly fed, housed, and cared, there is a good chance of him of reaching a good age. A secure fenced in yard is very important to the life to a dog. If you have a backyard, enclosed it, so that you can open your door and let your dog in. As your dog grow old, its body go through natural aging processes.
The most obvious change you will find in your dog when he grows old probably will be a decline in activity. The first thing to watch for is tiring after exercise or long walk. The old aged dog cannot walk as fast or as far. Do not take long walks; instead, walk him little and often, especially to new places. Use a more leisurely pace, stopping several times for rest along the way. Don't force him to play if he does not want to.
An old aged dog will want to sleep more. Let him, and be sure his bed is a little softer as well as warmer in the winter. Be sure that he is not sleeping in a drafty place. Be aware of his intolerance for high and low temperatures and protect him from extremes. He feels the cold and heat as he never did before. Bathe him with the warm bathwater in winter. Don't bathe him unless it is absolutely necessary; sponge him instead with a damp cloth, or use a dry shampoo to keep him sweet and clean. His hair will turn gray and lose its sheen. Brush him often as this will help to stimulate his skin glands, which have become sluggish.
As the dog ages, his hearing becomes less acute. The sign of hearing loss in your dog may be inattention or disregard of your commands. Your dog is not being disobedient; he cannot hear your call. As your dog hearing weakens you can tap the ground to attract his attention or if his sight is still good and he is looking your way, you can start using hand signals. Often when one sense fails, another tries to make up for it; therefore, it is not unusual to find a deaf dog looking instead of listening for commands. Your dog will watch you more closely than ever before.
Failing sight is another serious problem seen in dogs in old age. Old dog sometimes frightened to move because he cannot see objects clearly. The condition may go unnoticed around the house, where everything is familiar, but if you change the furniture around or take him to some new place, you may notice that he stumbles of perhaps hesitates to move. Blue eye or cloudy eyeballs in old dogs may mean cataracts which, of cause, will need veterinary attention.
The totally blind dog can still enjoy life if a little extra care is taken for his safety and comfort. As long as he can smell, feel and hear his loved ones, he doesn't seem to mind at all. Blind dogs get around by memory. Don't rearrange your home furniture. Keep his things in the usual places. He will remember where they are and can find his water bowl, his bed and toys. Keep rooms and stairways bright and free of obstacles. If the dog is totally blind, guide him safely up and down the stairs.
Disclaimer: This article is not meant to provide health advice and is for general information only. Always seek the insights of a qualified health professional before embarking on any health program.
Copyright © Ryan Mutt, All Rights Reserved. If you want to use this article on your website or in your ezine, make all the urls (links) active.
By: Ryan Mutt
When your dog is correctly fed, housed, and cared, there is a good chance of him of reaching a good age. A secure fenced in yard is very important to the life to a dog. If you have a backyard, enclosed it, so that you can open your door and let your dog in. As your dog grow old, its body go through natural aging processes.
The most obvious change you will find in your dog when he grows old probably will be a decline in activity. The first thing to watch for is tiring after exercise or long walk. The old aged dog cannot walk as fast or as far. Do not take long walks; instead, walk him little and often, especially to new places. Use a more leisurely pace, stopping several times for rest along the way. Don't force him to play if he does not want to.
An old aged dog will want to sleep more. Let him, and be sure his bed is a little softer as well as warmer in the winter. Be sure that he is not sleeping in a drafty place. Be aware of his intolerance for high and low temperatures and protect him from extremes. He feels the cold and heat as he never did before. Bathe him with the warm bathwater in winter. Don't bathe him unless it is absolutely necessary; sponge him instead with a damp cloth, or use a dry shampoo to keep him sweet and clean. His hair will turn gray and lose its sheen. Brush him often as this will help to stimulate his skin glands, which have become sluggish.
As the dog ages, his hearing becomes less acute. The sign of hearing loss in your dog may be inattention or disregard of your commands. Your dog is not being disobedient; he cannot hear your call. As your dog hearing weakens you can tap the ground to attract his attention or if his sight is still good and he is looking your way, you can start using hand signals. Often when one sense fails, another tries to make up for it; therefore, it is not unusual to find a deaf dog looking instead of listening for commands. Your dog will watch you more closely than ever before.
Failing sight is another serious problem seen in dogs in old age. Old dog sometimes frightened to move because he cannot see objects clearly. The condition may go unnoticed around the house, where everything is familiar, but if you change the furniture around or take him to some new place, you may notice that he stumbles of perhaps hesitates to move. Blue eye or cloudy eyeballs in old dogs may mean cataracts which, of cause, will need veterinary attention.
The totally blind dog can still enjoy life if a little extra care is taken for his safety and comfort. As long as he can smell, feel and hear his loved ones, he doesn't seem to mind at all. Blind dogs get around by memory. Don't rearrange your home furniture. Keep his things in the usual places. He will remember where they are and can find his water bowl, his bed and toys. Keep rooms and stairways bright and free of obstacles. If the dog is totally blind, guide him safely up and down the stairs.
Disclaimer: This article is not meant to provide health advice and is for general information only. Always seek the insights of a qualified health professional before embarking on any health program.
Copyright © Ryan Mutt, All Rights Reserved. If you want to use this article on your website or in your ezine, make all the urls (links) active.
By: Ryan Mutt
Basic Labrador Training Tips For New Owners
Though most of them are fluffy and cuddly like stuffed toys, dogs will not survive on hugs, kisses or cuddles alone. Owners and potential owners must know (yet others fail to realize) that having a dog is a serious committment. You do not bring home a labrador just to cuddle and play. You must be willing to provide care, grooming, labrador training and other things a labrador needs in order to grow healthy and happy.
Although the labrador is intelligent as a breed, labrador training can be a bit challenge to first time lab owners. But with proper training tips and advice, training a labrador may not be as difficult as what it seems to be.
Positive method. A labrador is a strong and large breed with generally good temperament. Unsurprisingly, positive training method works best for this breed. Using positive reinforcement such as praise and treats can be way effective than training based on punishment.
Start early. Although you can still teach old dogs with new tricks, it is always a great idea to start training your pup as soon as possible. Puppies at six to eight weeks of age can start learning commands however, socialization should start earlier.
Short and fun training sessions. Dogs, especially puppies have short attention span, thus it is always recommended to keep the training sessions short and interesting. Training should last around 15 minutes and must include challenging activities to keep his mind and body working. Reward him with praise or treat every time the session ends so that he will associate the training with something rewarding.
Communication. Training a dog is actually more on communication. In order to achieve positive result in training, one must be able to communicate well with the pet. Naturally, dogs do not talk the way humans did. They communicate through body signals and expressions - owners must try to understand that. A dog that is ill, confused, nervous or excited will not learn efficiently so watch out for signs.
No punishment required. While training a dog can be sometimes frustrating and giving punishment can be so tempting, punishing a dog is not really a desired and effective form of training method. In fact, it will do more harm than good so avoid it as much as possible.
By: Richard Cussons
Although the labrador is intelligent as a breed, labrador training can be a bit challenge to first time lab owners. But with proper training tips and advice, training a labrador may not be as difficult as what it seems to be.
Positive method. A labrador is a strong and large breed with generally good temperament. Unsurprisingly, positive training method works best for this breed. Using positive reinforcement such as praise and treats can be way effective than training based on punishment.
Start early. Although you can still teach old dogs with new tricks, it is always a great idea to start training your pup as soon as possible. Puppies at six to eight weeks of age can start learning commands however, socialization should start earlier.
Short and fun training sessions. Dogs, especially puppies have short attention span, thus it is always recommended to keep the training sessions short and interesting. Training should last around 15 minutes and must include challenging activities to keep his mind and body working. Reward him with praise or treat every time the session ends so that he will associate the training with something rewarding.
Communication. Training a dog is actually more on communication. In order to achieve positive result in training, one must be able to communicate well with the pet. Naturally, dogs do not talk the way humans did. They communicate through body signals and expressions - owners must try to understand that. A dog that is ill, confused, nervous or excited will not learn efficiently so watch out for signs.
No punishment required. While training a dog can be sometimes frustrating and giving punishment can be so tempting, punishing a dog is not really a desired and effective form of training method. In fact, it will do more harm than good so avoid it as much as possible.
By: Richard Cussons
Dog Not Coming When Called
Every dog owner must realize the importance of his or her dog coming when called.
It is very surprising to know that a huge percentage of dog owners do not recognize this as a major training problem, until their dog starts playing up, and presents the negative behavior pattern, of on not coming when called.
What happens if your dog breaks free and runs after someone? If it has developed the negative behavior pattern, of not coming when called, then in this situation it is not safe for the person the dog is running after, or for the dog itself.
Think of how unsafe it is for the dog, if there is heavy traffic and there are a lot of cars around, when it makes a run for it, and is in the habit of not stopping, and more importantly, not coming when called.
The dog owner is to blame if his or her dog has cultivated this negative behavior pattern of not coming when called.
It all begins with the habit of letting the dog run around freely, off the leash, especially in public areas. It is quite natural for a dog to have more fun running around in a park or on the beach totally unrestricted by a leash, and above all by the presence of its owner.
The dog begins to associate the fun it has with two things (1) the absence of the owner and (2) Not being on the leash, and very regrettably the (a) presence of the owner and (b) the leash assumes huge negative values in the dogs mind.
A dog will not do or associate itself with anything it feels is negative. The owner being around has now becomes negative to the dogs need for having fun. This negative value placed on the presence of the owner results in the dog not coming when called, because it knows it cannot have any fun when it is with the owner.
Every dog owner should incorporate it in their training, the prevention of the formation of this pattern, of the dog having fun without the owner.
The fun a dog gets during the time it spends with its owner should be in no way inferior or lesser than the fun it gets running around with other dogs
Every dog owner should always be present and around when the dog is playing, to be in control, and to supervise.
Any member of the family can assume the role of 'owner'. The importance is on the presence of a 'human' who is the master, who is in control, and who is supervising. The dog should never be allowed to feel that 'fun' = 'no human master present'.
If you have allowed this to happen, then in all probabilities your dog has already developed the negative behavior of not coming when called, and it needs to be retrained, and taught to respond to the all important command 'come here'.
It would be wise for every dog owner to try and use the 'come here' command without associating anything the dog may deem negative with it.
For example if you want to give your dog a bath, do not use the 'come here' command and land the dog in a tub of soapy water immediately it responds.
Always make the dog feel happy, immediately it responds to the 'come here' command'.
You have all the time in the world to fulfill the reason as to why you called it, but first, reward it, with affection and or a treat, and your dog will not develop the negative behavior pattern of not coming when called.
Noel Benjamin D'Costa is an internet marketer who specializes in dog supplies and dog training programs. ' Dog not coming when called ' is among the various topics he has dealt with on his blogs.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Noel_DCosta
It is very surprising to know that a huge percentage of dog owners do not recognize this as a major training problem, until their dog starts playing up, and presents the negative behavior pattern, of on not coming when called.
What happens if your dog breaks free and runs after someone? If it has developed the negative behavior pattern, of not coming when called, then in this situation it is not safe for the person the dog is running after, or for the dog itself.
Think of how unsafe it is for the dog, if there is heavy traffic and there are a lot of cars around, when it makes a run for it, and is in the habit of not stopping, and more importantly, not coming when called.
The dog owner is to blame if his or her dog has cultivated this negative behavior pattern of not coming when called.
It all begins with the habit of letting the dog run around freely, off the leash, especially in public areas. It is quite natural for a dog to have more fun running around in a park or on the beach totally unrestricted by a leash, and above all by the presence of its owner.
The dog begins to associate the fun it has with two things (1) the absence of the owner and (2) Not being on the leash, and very regrettably the (a) presence of the owner and (b) the leash assumes huge negative values in the dogs mind.
A dog will not do or associate itself with anything it feels is negative. The owner being around has now becomes negative to the dogs need for having fun. This negative value placed on the presence of the owner results in the dog not coming when called, because it knows it cannot have any fun when it is with the owner.
Every dog owner should incorporate it in their training, the prevention of the formation of this pattern, of the dog having fun without the owner.
The fun a dog gets during the time it spends with its owner should be in no way inferior or lesser than the fun it gets running around with other dogs
Every dog owner should always be present and around when the dog is playing, to be in control, and to supervise.
Any member of the family can assume the role of 'owner'. The importance is on the presence of a 'human' who is the master, who is in control, and who is supervising. The dog should never be allowed to feel that 'fun' = 'no human master present'.
If you have allowed this to happen, then in all probabilities your dog has already developed the negative behavior of not coming when called, and it needs to be retrained, and taught to respond to the all important command 'come here'.
It would be wise for every dog owner to try and use the 'come here' command without associating anything the dog may deem negative with it.
For example if you want to give your dog a bath, do not use the 'come here' command and land the dog in a tub of soapy water immediately it responds.
Always make the dog feel happy, immediately it responds to the 'come here' command'.
You have all the time in the world to fulfill the reason as to why you called it, but first, reward it, with affection and or a treat, and your dog will not develop the negative behavior pattern of not coming when called.
Noel Benjamin D'Costa is an internet marketer who specializes in dog supplies and dog training programs. ' Dog not coming when called ' is among the various topics he has dealt with on his blogs.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Noel_DCosta
Dogs Feeding And Health Problems In Old Age
Old age in dogs bring many problems. Old aged dog sometimes do not get the full benefit from the diet he has been eating. He may become thin, and his coat becomes harsh and dry. In some cases, a different food, a new feeding dish, or a different person preparing the food may upset the dog.
When your old dog becomes thin and weak you should try feeding him more often. Give him two feedings instead of one per day; or three instead of two. Smaller amount at each feeding is easier on the digestive system, and don't forget a few treats now and then, such as custard.
Keep fresh drinking water available at all times. If you find an increase in the volume of water consumed, especially accompanied by increased thirst, report it to your veterinarian. Kidney deterioration is common in geriatric dogs. Medication and prescription diets may be necessary. If your old dog has heart disease or stomach or intestinal problems, special foods are available in canned conditions through your veterinarian.
Watch carefully for any changes in the appearance of your dog. The old dog cannot fight infections as effectively as in the young age. If anything seems wrong, take the temperature. Even a degree rise in the body temperature which may mean nothing in a younger dog is a danger sign in the old dogs. Though infection spreads slowly, yet it does spread. Proper treatment must begin before damaging headway is made.
Growth is also a common part of the aging process. Growths may be found on almost any part of the body. The flaps of the ears, the eyelids, and the flesh between the toes are probable places. This should receive immediate treatment by your veterinarian.
Warts on old aged dogs are usually hard, round, and smooth. They are rather common and are caused by a virus. If they become irritated or bleed, have them removed. Warts are often found in the mouth. They often disappear spontaneously without treatment. In any cases, they can be removed surgically.
Tumors of the breasts or testicles often develop in old dogs when they have not been spayed or castrated. These, unfortunately, have a high malignancy rate. Long toenails strain the feet and make walking difficult. The nails can no longer grip the ground and so they grow rapidly. An old dog's nails rarely wear down to comfortable length naturally, so it is necessary to shorten them with a nail trimmer or a coarse nail file to give the dog better footing on smooth surfaces.
Skin diseases are common health problems of dogs. In normal good condition, the dog's skin is elastic. In most breeds, the skin of the dog is a light pink color; on a few others, it is blue, dark or spotted. Part the hair and look at your dog's skin just to make sure it is healthy.
The most common trouble sign is scratching perhaps followed by the appearance of lesions, or a breaking out of blisters or bumps on the surface of the skin. Often the dog's furious scratching and biting to gain relief aggravates the condition. Consult your veterinarian at the first sign of any dermatological problem. If the problems are diagnosed and treated in the early stage, there is a better the chances of it curing quickly.
Disclaimer: This article is not meant to provide health advice and is for general information only. Always seek the insights of a qualified health professional before embarking on any health program.
Copyright © Ryan Mutt, All Rights Reserved. If you want to use this article on your website or in your ezine, make all the urls (links) active.
By: Ryan Mutt
When your old dog becomes thin and weak you should try feeding him more often. Give him two feedings instead of one per day; or three instead of two. Smaller amount at each feeding is easier on the digestive system, and don't forget a few treats now and then, such as custard.
Keep fresh drinking water available at all times. If you find an increase in the volume of water consumed, especially accompanied by increased thirst, report it to your veterinarian. Kidney deterioration is common in geriatric dogs. Medication and prescription diets may be necessary. If your old dog has heart disease or stomach or intestinal problems, special foods are available in canned conditions through your veterinarian.
Watch carefully for any changes in the appearance of your dog. The old dog cannot fight infections as effectively as in the young age. If anything seems wrong, take the temperature. Even a degree rise in the body temperature which may mean nothing in a younger dog is a danger sign in the old dogs. Though infection spreads slowly, yet it does spread. Proper treatment must begin before damaging headway is made.
Growth is also a common part of the aging process. Growths may be found on almost any part of the body. The flaps of the ears, the eyelids, and the flesh between the toes are probable places. This should receive immediate treatment by your veterinarian.
Warts on old aged dogs are usually hard, round, and smooth. They are rather common and are caused by a virus. If they become irritated or bleed, have them removed. Warts are often found in the mouth. They often disappear spontaneously without treatment. In any cases, they can be removed surgically.
Tumors of the breasts or testicles often develop in old dogs when they have not been spayed or castrated. These, unfortunately, have a high malignancy rate. Long toenails strain the feet and make walking difficult. The nails can no longer grip the ground and so they grow rapidly. An old dog's nails rarely wear down to comfortable length naturally, so it is necessary to shorten them with a nail trimmer or a coarse nail file to give the dog better footing on smooth surfaces.
Skin diseases are common health problems of dogs. In normal good condition, the dog's skin is elastic. In most breeds, the skin of the dog is a light pink color; on a few others, it is blue, dark or spotted. Part the hair and look at your dog's skin just to make sure it is healthy.
The most common trouble sign is scratching perhaps followed by the appearance of lesions, or a breaking out of blisters or bumps on the surface of the skin. Often the dog's furious scratching and biting to gain relief aggravates the condition. Consult your veterinarian at the first sign of any dermatological problem. If the problems are diagnosed and treated in the early stage, there is a better the chances of it curing quickly.
Disclaimer: This article is not meant to provide health advice and is for general information only. Always seek the insights of a qualified health professional before embarking on any health program.
Copyright © Ryan Mutt, All Rights Reserved. If you want to use this article on your website or in your ezine, make all the urls (links) active.
By: Ryan Mutt
Labrador Training To Walk on Leash
There can be various purposes of labrador training. Apart from being household pet, a labrador can be trained to become guide dog for physically handicapped persons, rescue or search dog, hunting dog, detection dog or therapy dog. But regardless of the labrador training purpose, basic training must be done in order to make advanced training less challenging.
One lesson that must be included in the basic labrador training is training a dog to walk on leash. Most dogs do not like the restriction caused by leash and collar. It is therefore important to make leash training as simple and early as soon as possible. It's good if your new family member has already been introduced to collars, but if that is not the case, there is no cause for alarm. There is still time for you to get your pet familiar and comfortable with a collar.
To start the ball rolling, happily call your pet to come to you. Place the collar when he is relaxed and playing to keep his attention away from the strange thing around his neck. He'll probably try to remove or scratch off the thing but it is important that you don't take it off. Take it off only when he is relaxed and has forgotten about it. The collar should not be too tight to give him comfort and allow him to breathe, and neither too loose for it to easily slip off your dog's head.
Once your lab is comfortable with the collar, attach the leash and leave it in a short while to get him used to it. When the leash is on, do not leave your dog unsupervised because the leash can tangled and may lead to injury. When your lab has got used to the leash, pick up the other end of the of it and start to walk around the house with your dog either beside or behind you, never ahead of you. Chances are, your dog will try to walk you or refuse to move. Use the "come" command to solve this problem. If that doesn't work, use the "come" command and gently tug the leash to get his attention. Praise or reward him if he responds to the command.
Training a labrador to walk on leash can be challenging knowing that labradors are large and strong dogs that may tend to pull a lot. The "stay" command can work wonders on this dilemma.
Keep training sessions short and enjoyable.
One lesson that must be included in the basic labrador training is training a dog to walk on leash. Most dogs do not like the restriction caused by leash and collar. It is therefore important to make leash training as simple and early as soon as possible. It's good if your new family member has already been introduced to collars, but if that is not the case, there is no cause for alarm. There is still time for you to get your pet familiar and comfortable with a collar.
To start the ball rolling, happily call your pet to come to you. Place the collar when he is relaxed and playing to keep his attention away from the strange thing around his neck. He'll probably try to remove or scratch off the thing but it is important that you don't take it off. Take it off only when he is relaxed and has forgotten about it. The collar should not be too tight to give him comfort and allow him to breathe, and neither too loose for it to easily slip off your dog's head.
Once your lab is comfortable with the collar, attach the leash and leave it in a short while to get him used to it. When the leash is on, do not leave your dog unsupervised because the leash can tangled and may lead to injury. When your lab has got used to the leash, pick up the other end of the of it and start to walk around the house with your dog either beside or behind you, never ahead of you. Chances are, your dog will try to walk you or refuse to move. Use the "come" command to solve this problem. If that doesn't work, use the "come" command and gently tug the leash to get his attention. Praise or reward him if he responds to the command.
Training a labrador to walk on leash can be challenging knowing that labradors are large and strong dogs that may tend to pull a lot. The "stay" command can work wonders on this dilemma.
Keep training sessions short and enjoyable.
Reduce Dog Aggression
To reduce aggression it helps to understand the causes. Here are the most common:
• Past Negative Experiences
• Lack of Positive Experiences
• Instinct
• Territory disputes
• Resource Guarding
• Medical Issues
• Owner anxiety (protecting owner)
Socializing your dog goes a long way toward reducing problems with others. Dogs that grew up without regular interaction with others tend to be distrusting and unsure when they encounter social situations. Being unsure of their footing, they react defensively, often with the growling, barking and lunging that make it difficult to control them around others.
When you add in instinct and a desire to guard you can end up with an explosive situation. To reduce aggression and prevent future problems, you have to use a plan that creates positive associations.
By carefully controlling the environment you can produce positive memories for your dog. Here's what to do.
3 Steps To Stop Dog Aggression
1. Identify how far away he can be without getting upset. Stay outside that line.
2. Reward him for staying cool.
3. Work to move him closer to the object that upsets him.
Your dog needs the chance to interact with other dogs that are calm and friendly. Identify dogs that you know, either through friends and family or through work, and pick the ones that will be able to assist in rehabilitating your dog.
The process of re-teaching these associations is often called "counter-conditioning." As the name implies, the goal is to change the connection that exists in your dog's mind. To do this, we must give him new experiences.
Behavioral threshold refers to the distance at which your dog can no longer calmly handle the other dog. When that line is crossed, he begins to respond with aggression instead of indifference. The goal is to reduce and eventually eliminate the distance that he needs to keep his cool.
This is done by rewarding the calm mindset at the closest distance possible. For example, on Monday you arrange to have Leslie bring her super cool dog Ralph to your local park. Leslie sits on a bench with Ralph and you take your dog to a spot 30 feet away from them. Your dog is still calm so, while he's looking at Ralph, you give him a reward and tell him he's a good dog.
On Tuesday Leslie shows up again with Ralph. This time you pick a spot 25 feet away. Your dog keeps his cool so he again gets the reward.
Wednesday you move in to 20 feet away, Thursday 15 feet, and so on until Sunday when the two are next to each other. Because your dog has been getting praise and great treats every time he looks at Ralph for the last week, he has formed a positive association with Ralph and will be more inclined to meet him with a calm mindset. When they get along you will again reward him with praise and a treat.
Suddenly this other dog Ralph has become a sign of great things. Your dog wants to see him again. That's the process of counter-conditioning.
Not every scenario will be as easy as meeting Leslie and Ralph, but the plan is the same - set up the environment, establish the safe distance, reward the calm mindset, and gradually move closer.
Remember, in counter conditioning we are dealing with a dog's emotions, not just actions, so the intention is to make those feelings better to produce an actual resolution to the problem. Flooding the dog with the stimulus or making him quiet down may well produce satisfactory outward results, but it will make the problem worse. Suppression of behavior is not solving behavior.
Dog Academy
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jon_Dakins
• Past Negative Experiences
• Lack of Positive Experiences
• Instinct
• Territory disputes
• Resource Guarding
• Medical Issues
• Owner anxiety (protecting owner)
Socializing your dog goes a long way toward reducing problems with others. Dogs that grew up without regular interaction with others tend to be distrusting and unsure when they encounter social situations. Being unsure of their footing, they react defensively, often with the growling, barking and lunging that make it difficult to control them around others.
When you add in instinct and a desire to guard you can end up with an explosive situation. To reduce aggression and prevent future problems, you have to use a plan that creates positive associations.
By carefully controlling the environment you can produce positive memories for your dog. Here's what to do.
3 Steps To Stop Dog Aggression
1. Identify how far away he can be without getting upset. Stay outside that line.
2. Reward him for staying cool.
3. Work to move him closer to the object that upsets him.
Your dog needs the chance to interact with other dogs that are calm and friendly. Identify dogs that you know, either through friends and family or through work, and pick the ones that will be able to assist in rehabilitating your dog.
The process of re-teaching these associations is often called "counter-conditioning." As the name implies, the goal is to change the connection that exists in your dog's mind. To do this, we must give him new experiences.
Behavioral threshold refers to the distance at which your dog can no longer calmly handle the other dog. When that line is crossed, he begins to respond with aggression instead of indifference. The goal is to reduce and eventually eliminate the distance that he needs to keep his cool.
This is done by rewarding the calm mindset at the closest distance possible. For example, on Monday you arrange to have Leslie bring her super cool dog Ralph to your local park. Leslie sits on a bench with Ralph and you take your dog to a spot 30 feet away from them. Your dog is still calm so, while he's looking at Ralph, you give him a reward and tell him he's a good dog.
On Tuesday Leslie shows up again with Ralph. This time you pick a spot 25 feet away. Your dog keeps his cool so he again gets the reward.
Wednesday you move in to 20 feet away, Thursday 15 feet, and so on until Sunday when the two are next to each other. Because your dog has been getting praise and great treats every time he looks at Ralph for the last week, he has formed a positive association with Ralph and will be more inclined to meet him with a calm mindset. When they get along you will again reward him with praise and a treat.
Suddenly this other dog Ralph has become a sign of great things. Your dog wants to see him again. That's the process of counter-conditioning.
Not every scenario will be as easy as meeting Leslie and Ralph, but the plan is the same - set up the environment, establish the safe distance, reward the calm mindset, and gradually move closer.
Remember, in counter conditioning we are dealing with a dog's emotions, not just actions, so the intention is to make those feelings better to produce an actual resolution to the problem. Flooding the dog with the stimulus or making him quiet down may well produce satisfactory outward results, but it will make the problem worse. Suppression of behavior is not solving behavior.
Dog Academy
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jon_Dakins
Housebreaking The Dog
When families get a dog and bring him into the home, he is not just a pet to watch the house or guard property but a member of the family. As a member of the family, there are rules that should be followed. One basic rule is to keep the home clean. This is where the need for housebreaking comes in. But one must keep in mind the kind of dog he they are bringing home: a new puppy or an older dog that may have come from a shelter or a previous family.
For a puppy, it is important to let it know its surroundings and being new in the world and not in the just in the household, there would be so many factors that may distract him as he is just being introduced to them. But a good rule of thumb when housebreaking or even training in general is to praise when praise is due and show disapproval immediately if something is done wrong to reinforce and instill the message in the mind of the puppy. When the puppy relieves himself in a place that is not proper, immediately show your disapproval for they won’t remember if it’s told the next day or five minutes later. But owners must aid in the learning such as bringing them out after meals to relieve the bladder pressure and praise them when they do their thing in the right places. Crate training is a very good method as it keeps them in one place and it is just big enough for them to comfortably lie down. Dogs usually do not like wetting their area of rest. Once the puppy is seen running in circles, it’s the signal to take them out. As time passes, they will be accustomed to having to go out to take a leak and not indoors.
For older dogs, it may be a challenge to some. Other factors have to be taken into account when wanting to housebreak the dog. They will be having a new environment like how the puppy experiences it for the first time, but the older dog may have had a bad past with a previous owner and the style implemented by the new owner might make them withdraw or shy away. The rule of thumb of praising still applies. Since they have better bladder control, they may adjust to an eliminating schedule by taking them out at specific times of the day. However, crate training can still be used with older dogs.
Dogs have the innate need to please their owners. Owners that show compassion, patience and understanding will win their dogs over no matter what age.
By: DogBreeds
For a puppy, it is important to let it know its surroundings and being new in the world and not in the just in the household, there would be so many factors that may distract him as he is just being introduced to them. But a good rule of thumb when housebreaking or even training in general is to praise when praise is due and show disapproval immediately if something is done wrong to reinforce and instill the message in the mind of the puppy. When the puppy relieves himself in a place that is not proper, immediately show your disapproval for they won’t remember if it’s told the next day or five minutes later. But owners must aid in the learning such as bringing them out after meals to relieve the bladder pressure and praise them when they do their thing in the right places. Crate training is a very good method as it keeps them in one place and it is just big enough for them to comfortably lie down. Dogs usually do not like wetting their area of rest. Once the puppy is seen running in circles, it’s the signal to take them out. As time passes, they will be accustomed to having to go out to take a leak and not indoors.
For older dogs, it may be a challenge to some. Other factors have to be taken into account when wanting to housebreak the dog. They will be having a new environment like how the puppy experiences it for the first time, but the older dog may have had a bad past with a previous owner and the style implemented by the new owner might make them withdraw or shy away. The rule of thumb of praising still applies. Since they have better bladder control, they may adjust to an eliminating schedule by taking them out at specific times of the day. However, crate training can still be used with older dogs.
Dogs have the innate need to please their owners. Owners that show compassion, patience and understanding will win their dogs over no matter what age.
By: DogBreeds
