Each year millions of family pets are lost, and end up at shelters that have no idea who these pets belong to, or how to contact the owners to return the pets. But, something as simple as a pet tag that you only have to register for once, because the contact information can be updated free for the life of the pet, can almost erase this problem and reunite many pets with their families.

Questions to Ask Before for Buying Exotic Pets

Having a pet has always been found by many to be a life enriching experience. It isn’t unusual for people to have a dog or a cat as companions at home. However, there are people who aren’t content with the typical animal friends, others want the excitement and thrill that can be provided by exotic pets. Acquiring and maintaining exotic pets are not really that difficult nowadays, but if you are considering to get an exotic pet, you must first ask yourself the following questions:

Why do you want an exotic pet?

Many people consider having exotic pets because it seems to be cool to have one. However, having exotic pets is a serious decision that one must carefully examine. Many exotic pets need more care than typical pets. You should weigh all factors according to your abilities and capacities before getting any particular exotic pet.

Is it legal to keep the exotic pet?

Some animals are prohibited by law to be kept as pets. You should make sure that your area allows people to own the particular species you are eyeing before getting it. Otherwise you might have to give up your pet or be penalized for owning it. What are exotic pets like?

Do you have the capacity and ability to own the exotic pet?

Keep in mind that some pets, like a dog for example, are much more expensive to own than others. It is important that you know what you and your family can do to keep your pet healthy, happy and safe before you make any purchases.

As mentioned, most exotic pets need extra care and attention. You must be sure that you have the time, effort and money to spend caring for the exotic pet. Can you feed it? Can you provide appropriate shelter? Can you afford the health care expenses? Owning pets, especially exotic ones, takes great responsibility, and you must be certain that you have this quality before owning one.

Can the pet live in your area?

Certain pets may be legal in your area, but they may not necessarily be able to live in your home. Some pets might be too noisy or too rowdy to live in apartments and condominiums. Pets usually require a certain amount of space, air, and sunlight to live well and you have to be sure that your home can provide that.

Is the pet safe for you and your companions?

Pets have different levels of aggression and you must be sure that you and the people you live with can cope with the behavioral tendencies of the pet. Some exotic pets might also be poisonous or are prone to certain infectious diseases, and thus you have to make sure that you and your companions can avoid any untoward incidents.

Having exotic pets is a serious matter and you should examine everything before deciding to own one.

Some pets are stolen. A pet thief may snatch Fifi or Fido in hopes of getting a reward for its return, or to use in dog fights (even small or gentle dogs are susceptible – they can be used as “bait”), or for use in cult rituals.

Carrie A.Hall
http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/before-buying-exotic-pets-82504.html

This post via: The Pet Vet Speaks Before Buying Exotic Pets

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They say we are what we eat. This applies to your pet as much as it applies to yourself. A good diet means less health problems, less trips to the vet and lower veterinary bills. But how much thought have you given to what your cat should be eating to maintain optimum health? Ask yourself the following questions.

1) How many times a day do you feed your cat?

Since cats cannot be exercised like dogs can, the only way you can influence your cats weight is by controlling the amount and type of food he or she eats. If the cat is being fed individual meals several times daily, there is often a tendency by the owner to offer the daily supply of food on several occasions rather than divide up the daily feed into several meals. This can also occur with cats fed dry food ad lib. Cats usually regulate their food intake, but continual exposure to large quantities of food may lead to over-eating and subsequent obesity if too many calories are consumed. In short, both several individual meals a day and ad lib feeding are fine, it is the total amount offered per 24 hour period which is the important figure.

Kittens should be fed small meals at regular intervals due to their tiny stomachs. Four or five meals are recommended at eight weeks of age, decreasing to two at six months of age.

2) Is your cats diet manufactured specifically for cats or do you give human food?

Some cat owners like to spoil their cat by feeding them human food as the bulk of their diet. Others have tried feeding their cat regular catfood, but find their fussy cat will not touch it, and prefers to wait for the inevitable human food offering, which soon becomes the staple diet.

Is it really unhealthy to feed cats human food though? Of course it depends what food. Remember that cats are carnivores, and require a high proportion of meat in their diet. They simply cannot adapt to a low protein diet, and will lose bodyweight if deprived of it. In fact, as a species they are relatively unique… a deficiency of the amino acid, arginine, in a single meal can lead to symptoms of lethargy, hypersalivation and vocalisation. Arginine is required by the cat to produce urea, a waste product resulting from the breakdown of protein.

Another essential nutrient for the cat is the amino acid, taurine, which the cat cannot manufacture sufficiently by itself to meet its needs. The cat’s diet must therefore contain taurine in sufficient quantities. If a deficiency develops there is a high risk of serious and irreversible damage to major organs such as the heart and the eye. Taurine is found almost entirely in meat, confirming the fact that the cat is a compulsory carnivore.

Another disease of nutritional origin is that caused by cats eating raw liver regularly, who can suffer from a condition called hypervitaminosis A. Cats suffering from this can present with signs of lethargy, unthriftiness, a stiff neck and other skeletal problems. To play it safe, do not feed your cat liver more than once a week.

Reputable cat foods are formulated after extensive trials by pet food companies to provide the mixture of protein, carbohydrate and fat that suits feline physiology best. It is easier, cheaper and possibly more healthy for your cat to be fed a reputable cat food diet, with occasional treats if desired (tuna, liver etc).

3) Which is better out of dry cat food or wet cat food?

Most vets recommend complete dry biscuit based cat food. This is because studies have shown that cats on dry food diets are less likely to suffer from dental disease than those on wet food from a tin or pouch. The physical motion of biting these biscuits helps prevent tartar from adhering to the surface of the tooth. However, even cats with no teeth can eat biscuit based food without a problem, as they just scoop up the biscuits with their tongue and swallow them whole. Another advantage of dry food is that it does not spoil as quickly which is useful for cats that are fed ad lib.

There are occasionally reasons why a wet food is preferable, as a method to increase the water consumption in a cat with a urinary problem such as cystitis.

4) Which is the best cat food to choose?

There are so many different brands of cat food on the market, the best one is basically a matter of opinion. Certainly palatability is a factor, there is no point in purchasing a particular food if your cat cannot stand it, although this is occasionally a necessity in cats requiring prescription diets. Rather than recommending you a specific brand, we suggest that you choose one which adheres to the criteria below.

Cat foods labeled as complete and balanced must meet standards established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), either by meeting a nutrient profile or by passing a feeding trial. There are now two separate nutrient profiles for cats – one for growth (kittens) and one for maintenance (adults). Maximum levels of intake of some nutrients have been established for the first time because of the concern that overnutrition, rather than undernutrition, is a bigger problem with many pet foods today. The standards include recommendations on protein, fat, fat soluble vitamins, water soluble vitamins, and mineral content of foods. If you are prepared to get technical, you should choose a food that comes closest to AAFCO recommendations.

In summary, consider the following points:

Choose a food that suits your cats age. Most big pet food companies will have different foods for kittens vs adults. Cats with medical conditions may be recommended special prescription diets.

Choose a food that come closest to AAFCO recommendations.

The ingredients contains the truth about a particular food. Everything else is there only for marketing purposes.

There are no legal and scientific definitions for the terms “premium,” “super premium,” “quality,” or “natural.”

Use dry matter numbers to evaluate and compare foods.

The source of ingredients (e.g. animal vs vegetable) does not matter, except in the case of food allergies.

Avoid supplementation. All commercial cat foods have more than enough protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals. Feeding your cat a good food incorrectly can lead to significant problems.

5) My cat is overweight, but no matter how hard I try I cannot get him to lose weight. What can I do?

Your cat is almost certainly being fed too much. Below some common mistakes are listed. Have a good look at these and make sure none of them could apply to your cat.

Not following the guidelines on the packet when measuring a portion. Most cat foods will have a table on the packaging suggesting daily portions for cats of different weights. The weight of food suggested is per 24 hrs, not per portion! Use your kitchen weighing scales to measure out the portion until you are sure of the correct amount.

Using a complete dry diet as a replacement for regular biscuits, and mixing it with wet cat food. If it says complete, you should not mix it with anything or you will overfeed.

Offering inappropriate food that is high in fat, or cream/full fat milk to drink.

Several members of the household feeding the cat at different times, whenever the cat is meows for food.

Giving the cat regular treats in addition to its main meal.

The cat is getting fed by neighbors, who think they are being kind by feeding it and enjoy the attention it gives them.

The cat is scavenging food from outside sources, such as other peoples bins.

The cat is part of a multi-cat household and is stealing food from the other cat(s), or even the dog.
Keep an open mind. If there is a possibility that any of the above scenarios might be the case with your cat, investigate it. If you are still at a loss, consider starting a prescription diet (see below).

6) I have heard you can get special light diets, or prescription diets for fat cats. Do they really work?

Yes they do, if used properly. These types of cat food are available in complete wet (tinned or pouches) form or dry (biscuit) form, and are growing in popularity amongst conscientious pet owners. They are low in calories and high in fibre, and often contain high levels of L-carnitine. L-carnitine has been used to help with fat metabolism in other species and recent scientific work indicates that it helps reduce weight in overweight dogs and cats. The real benefit of these low calorie diets though is that because of its low calories, cats can still eat reasonable sized portions and therefore feel full. This means they are more content and less likely to beg and look for extra food.
These diets are perfectly healthy for normal sized cats to eat too, so if you have a multi cat household and it is unfeasible to separate the cats during feeding time, you can safely feed all of the cats the prescription diet together.

7) Where can I buy this low calorie food from?

Many of the big pet food companies are waking up to the problem of pet obesity, and adding light versions to their range. However, they are unlikely to be as effective as the traditional prescription diets that are on the market.

They are known as prescription diets, because they are a specialist food normally prescribed by a veterinarian. However, you do not need a prescription to buy the food as it is a general sales list product. These foods are rarely available in supermarkets as many supermarkets are keen to sell their own brand, or have deals with the big pet food manufacturers. Many owners but their prescription diet from their veterinary clinic for convenience, whilst others prefer to shop around to get the best price. Many online pharmacies and pet stores are now offering these prescription foods, but whilst they may appear cheaper online, watch out for delivery charges added on top.

Matthew Homfray
http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/does-your-cat-have-a-healthy-diet-111237.html

This post via: The Pet Vet Speaks Does Your Cat Have A Healthy Diet?

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Owning a cat takes a little work but gives back a whole lot of pleasure in return. Here are some ideas on how to make your new kitty feel at home, while giving you peace of mind. It is a transition to own a new pet, so take it step by step and don’t be afraid.

If you have a small kitten, make sure to handle it a lot, gently showing it that you are someone it can trust. Put a ticking clock in where its bed is, the soothing sound mimics the mother cat’s heartbeat. If you are keeping the kitty in a separate room until it’s ready to acclimate to the household, make sure it has a soft pillow or cat bed to sleep in. A few toys are appreciated, too. Some great free toys are things like a cotton swab tied to a string and hung from a doorknob (supervise play with this item)or a milk jug ring (that plastic ring around the cap). At the pet store, buy super balls, a laser pointer and catnip mice then sit back and watch the show as kitty wears himself out, being a spring-loaded, furry ballet dancer, leaping in the air as he chases his “prey”. Find toys that are lightweight and throw them around a little, to show the kitty how to play. Kittens learn by watching their mothers, so they will also learn by watching their adopted human parent.

Establish an area for the cat’s litter box in a well ventilated, quiet place. Then, show the kitty where it is, taking your hand and play scratching the litter to show him it’s ok for him to use it. Again, cats learn from watching, and especially kittens need a little guidance sometimes. If the kitty relieves itself outside the box, don’t punish it, just put it into its cat box immediately. Show no anger, as this will scare the cat and make them fear you. Fear isn’t a good teacher, calm praise and encouragement is what you want. Make sure to address the problem as it happens for best results since cats have short memory spans and won’t correllate the accident with the cat box unless you quickly link the two together with corrective action (putting kitty in the box).

All my life, I have given my cats both wet and dry food. Ask your vet the proper amount to feed your cat, but make sure to get quality food that they like, not just anything cheap you see at the store. If you feed your cat quality food, they have a better chance of steering clear of health problems later. My vet told me that male cats can get crystals in their urinary tracts, which are painful and expensive to remove. To avoid that, don’t give kitty food with high magnesium in it. Read the ingredient labels. Having male cats myself, I avoid fish products and give them turkey, chicken or beef flavored canned foods. The ones with rice in them are good, too. Just like humans, vary the flavors of food you feed your cat somewhat. I buy a case of canned food and feed mine one can every day at the same time.

Save money on pet medicines by buying them online. You can take the kitty to the vet when he’s sick and buy the medicine there, but if it isn’t an emergency then by all means, research to find lower prices on pet meds like flea or parasite killing aids. My cat had tapeworms (they look like rice in the cats stool) so I found out what medicine the vet uses and located it on an internet pet store site. The medicine would’ve cost me over $30 if I’d bought it through the vet, but I got the exact, same kind for $15 online. It pays to research the safety of the medicine vets recommend, and make sure to follow the dosage instructions very carefully. Don’t dose your pet higher than listed in the instructions and don’t use dog medicines on cats unless the vet says it is ok to do so. Cats groom themselves, and if you use a topical medicine on a cat that is meant for a dog, it could potentially poison him when he cleans himself. It is better to be safe than sorry. Also, never give human medicine to pets, cats have different systems than we do. Don’t gamble on the life of your precious pet.

When it comes to the question of whether or not to let your cat outside or not, it is a proven fact that indoor cats live longer lives than those who are permitted to go out. This is because there are a vast amount of dangers and illnesses outside that a free-roaming cat may encounter. Cars, cat-hating neighbors, dogs, diseases from other peoples’ pets, and of course, fleas top the list of hazards. We had cats as I grew up, all of whom went outdoors, and one by one, they died from things like leukemia, poisoning from a neighbor, hit by cars (we lost a few cats to cars), and one was trapped and came back with a mangled leg, that needed to be amputated. We lived on a peaceful, upscale street and still, all this happened. I cannot emphasize more strongly, indoor cats do live longer. As an adult, my cats have been indoors, and they have lived to 21 or more years old. Just get your indoor kitty a cat tree (kitty condo) or a scratching post and put it near the window so that he can bird-watch.

Protect your cat when you have guests over who are either rough with, or dislike cats. Put kitty in another room if you don’t want him manhandled by very young children, for example. If you have young children, make sure to show them very carefully and thoroughly to be gentle and kind to pets. Well-meaning kids may break a cat’s leg by picking it up wrong (one of my cats was a rescue who had this happen to him) so it pays to supervise your small child’s interaction with a new pet. This is for the protection of the child as well, as rough handling a cat can cause it to scratch! Cats are loving, but they must be treated with kindness, or their natural instinct is to protect themselves.

If you are going to be gone for a week or so, make sure you have a pet sitter or friend look in on your cat while you’re away. Put down a large amount of dry food and water for the cat, but make sure someone checks to make sure it hasn’t run out. My local pet sitters cost me $15 per day, a small price to pay for peace of mind when I’m away from my furry friends.

Having a pet is a committment and priveledge. Remember, your pet is going to be with you through thick and thin, so be there for him in sickness or health. Give them the same chance at having a happy and full life that you yourself deserve by giving him a forever home. If for any reason you are forced to part with a pet due to unforseen problems, be responsible about finding your pet a good home. Do for your pet what you would do for yourself. There are few circumstances that would warrant giving up a pet, so I advise you to keep your committment, no matter what. I live in a hurricane evacuation zone, and if I have to evacuate, my pets have a large pet cage in the car to be in, with a fan, so we can be together. If you are in a hurricane zone, preplan disasters by arming yourself with a foldable cage for the back of your car, a jug of water and food if you evacuate. Don’t ever leave your pet behind, because he may not be there when you come back. I had my three cats microchipped, in case somehow they got physically separated from me, they would be able to come home to me. Microchips carry the address of the owner, and authorities check strays to see if they have them so they are great investments.

Owning a pet teaches patience and responsibility. In return, you will be paid by unconditional love and acceptance.If you have any questions on cat care, contact your local chapter of the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) or your vet, and they usually will help you over the phone. In time, you and your pet will be more comfortable with one another. Until then, just take it slow, remember to be gentle and supportive, and you will have a special friend for life.

Carolyn McFann
http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/useful-tips-on-caring-for-your-new-cat-or-kitten-126040.html

This post via: The Pet Vet Speaks Useful Tips on Caring for your New Cat or Kitten

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Is the Rottweiler the right dog for me?

The Rottweiler is the current “fad” guard/macho dog of the moment. For four years running, it has been the second most-popular AKC registered breed. Don’t be swept up by the hype, or the fact that you neighbor, aunt, sister, or best friend has one. The Rottweiler is a large, powerful dog and along with ownership comes much responsibility. Rottweilers require extensive socialization from an early age. Are you willing to carry your puppy for several months, (he shouldn’t be walking in public places until he is fully immunized at around 16-20 weeks), exposing him to the sights, sounds and people he will encounter as an adult? Because of their size and strength, obedience training for your Rottweiler is a must. Weekly group classes for 6 to 12 months is generally considered a minimum. Rottweilers are “people” dogs.

They want to be with their masters. As a working breed, the Rottweiler requires daily exercise, a good romp twice a day at least. Left alone or with inadequate exercise for long periods they may become unruly and destructive.

How are they with children?

A properly bred Rottweiler who receives adequate socialization and training will generally get along fine with children, but tolerance will vary from dog to dog. He must be taught early on what is acceptable behavior and what is not, as should the child. Because of their large size and inherent desire to “herd”, Rottweilers should always be supervised around children. A minor “bump” can cause serious injury to a small child. Also, some Rottweilers have a high degree of “prey” drive (the instinct to chase moving objects), therefore should never be left alone with children, who naturally will want to run and play. Some breeders recommend waiting until the children are at least school age before introducing a Rottweiler into the home. The amount of space in your home, the age of your children and the amount of time the dog will be in contact with the children should be part of your decision.

Are they vicious?

A properly bred, socialized and trained Rottweiler is not inherently vicious. The rapid rise in popularity of the breed has attracted many irresponsible breeders who are only interested in making a profit, and don’t care what damage is done to the breed in the process.

Are they good with other pets?

Problems should be minimal when a Rottweiler is raised from puppyhood with other pets. Introducing a new pet when there is an adult Rottweiler in the household should be done slowly and with care. Dog to dog aggression is influenced by the early socialization of puppies, their bloodlines and sex; males are less tolerant of other males than they are of females. Bitches may also be intolerant of other dogs. The Rottweiler is highly intelligent and trainable, and with perserverence, should be able to learn to co-exist peacefully with any pet you wish to introduce.

What kind of training do they require?

The Rottweiler has been developed for its working ability and often blooms when given a chance to work with its master, although there are occasional exceptions. It is very necessary to establish your control of the animal and obedience training is often the easiest and most rewarding way to do so. Your breeder should be able to provide you with guidance in the selection of a training class, however, avoid the very rough trainer, no matter how highly recommended. Rottweilers can often be controlled using verbal reprimands alone, and while they occasionally require strong physical corrections, some trainers tend to be much rougher on Rottweilers than is necessary. Women have been very successful with the dogs in obedience training. Physical mastery of the dog is generally less important than sensitive, patient and positive training methods. Patience is an important factor in training a Rottweiler.

What about discipline?

The Rottweiler is a sensitive, intelligent and loyal animal and usually wants to please its owner. Occasionally, it can be quite stubborn though, and requires more attention. It is imperative that discipline is consistent and firm without being overly rough. A harsh word will often suffice, although sharper corrections are sometimes necessary. Ownership isn’t for the timid or very busy person who cannot or is not inclined towards careful supervision of his/her pet.

Do they require much exercise?

The Rottweiler is a working breed. He is generally not happy sitting around doing nothing all day. A large yard with a six-foot high fence is ideal, but adult Rottweilers have been kept successfully in large apartments. The yard is essential if a puppy or young dog is being acquired; it will help to keep the dog exercised and reduce boredom which in turn may prevent destructive behavior. If you don’t have the space, consider a smaller or less active breed. Personal commitment on the part of the owner is the most important thing. People willing to walk their dog on a regular basis will find a more personal and bonding relationship developing than just letting them run by themselves in the yard. Your Rottweiler will require a minimum of two good walks each day (10 to 20 minutes each). Adequate exercise is necessary to maintain the good health of your Rottweiler, as they have a tendency to gain weight without proper exercise.

Do they shed?

The Rottweiler is a double-coated breed, with a medium length outer coat and a soft downy undercoat. They do shed, more than one would think by looking at their appearance. The amount of shedding will vary with climatic conditions. They generally tend to “blow out” their undercoats twice a year, in spring and fall.

Are they noisy?

Rottweilers will bark to announce the arrival of people on the property, and at animals and birds in the yard, but they generally don’t bark without reason.

Which sex makes the best pet?

Opinions vary on this topic. Most breeders would generally recommend a female, especially for first-time owners. Females are smaller and easier to control, somewhat less dominant and usually more affectionate. Males are stronger, more powerful and dominant, and therefore somewhat harder to train and control.

Where should I buy my Rottweiler puppy?

There are various places where you may acquire a Rottweiler puppy, but only ONE place where you should – from a responsible breeder. Pet shops acquire their puppies from puppy mills, brokers and back-yard breeders. Their puppies are separated from their dams and litters at too early and age, they are not properly socialized and may well develop serious health problems.

Puppy mills, brokers and back-yard breeders have only one priority – to make a profit. They are not interested in the welfare of the puppies they breed. Beware of petshops that advertise “we get our puppies from private breeders.” No responsible breeder would ever broker puppies to a pet shop. Don’t perpetuate the puppy mill problem – steer clear of pet shops.

What is a “Responsible” breeder?

This is a difficult category to define, but there are certain minimum standards that are accepted as “responsible” by most who are active in the dog fancy. Following are some of the things a responsible breeder will be doing:

1. All breeding stock will be certified free of Hip Dysplasia by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA). Elbows may also be certified as free of Elbow Dysplasia; this is a relatively new trend and some older dogs/bitches may not be certified. The breeder will be willing to supply you with copies of the OFA certificates. No bitch or dog will be bred before the age of two, (the minimum age for OFA certification). OFA does issue preliminary evaluations of hips and elbows, but actual certification will not be done before two years.

2. Breeding stock will be certified free of inherited eye disease annually by a Board certified Veterinary Ophthalmologist; the certificate is issued by the Canine Eye Registry Foundation (CERF).

3. Bitches and dogs used for breeding will have achieved certain competitive titles such as AKC Champion or an advanced obedience title (CDX, UD). Responsible breeders will usually not breed dogs and bitches whose quality has not been proven in competition, although under certain circumstances (injuries which prevent competition) they may.

4. The Breeder will belong to one or more Rottweiler Clubs which require adherence to a “Code of Ethics” from all members (adherence to a certain level of responsibility in ownership and breeding). The largest of these clubs include the American Rottweiler Club, The Colonial Rottweiler Club, The Medallion Rottweiler Club and the Gold Coast Rottweiler Club. There are numerous local Rottweiler clubs, some are “Code” clubs and some are not – ask. Code of Ethics clubs do not permit members to advertise puppy prices.

5. The Breeder will be active in the sport of dogs, competing in conformation, obedience, tracking or herding events.

6. A responsible breeder will not give you a “hard-sell” routine when you call to inquire about his/her dogs. Usually he/she will be trying everything they can to discourage you from buying a Rottweiler. A reputable breeder’s number one concern is that his/her puppies are placed in responsible homes where they will receive the same kind of care and training he/she gives his/her own dogs. Expect to be interviewed at length as to why you want to own a Rottweiler, and what your family and lifestyle is like. The reputable breeder will ask more questions of you than you will of him/her.

7. A responsible breeder will try to steer you clear of rushing to buy a puppy this week or this month, but he/she will also not expect you to wait an unreasonable amount of time to buy one of his/her puppies. If he has no puppies available and has no breeding planned in the near future, he will recommend other breeders whose standards are as high as his own.

8. A responsible breeder will be happy to have you meet the parents of the litter (at least the dam; frequently the sire will not belong to the breeder), as well as his/her other dogs. The dogs and puppies will be kept in a clean and healthy environment.

9. A responsible breeder will only sell puppies with a signed, written contract. He/she will pass on accurate health, breeding and registration records and pedigree records of at least three generations. They will require that any puppy not purchased as show and breeding stock be made incapable of reproducing, and require that limited registration “blue slips” be provided, or that registration papers be withheld until a veterinarians certificate is received as proof of sterilization.

What is the difference between pet and show quality?

“Show Quality” is a term that is often misunderstood and misused. It can mean something as simple as a puppy with no disqualifying faults (as listed in the breed standard) at the time of sale. The serious buyer looking for a potential winner or breeding stock had best spend time going to dog shows and talking to exhibitors as well as studying the standard for the breed. Serious and disqualifying faults to avoid include overshot or undershot bites, missing teeth, long or curly coats, light eyes, hip dysplasia and unstable temperaments. All lines carry one or more of these traits, and a responsible breeder will be able to give you a candid description of what is in your animal’s genetic background. Be aware that the nicest puppy in the litter can mature into a very mediocre adult. Be prepared to critically evaluate your dog, because even if you paid a good price you may still end up with a pet.

“Pet Quality”: many time breeders will offer puppies with serious faults for lower prices than show quality. These faults are generally cosmetic (bad bites, white spots on the chest or belly, missing teeth, etc.) and will not affect the health or temperament of the dog. These animals are not for breeding because these are serious genetic faults. A responsible breeder will require that the animal be spayed, neutered or vasectomized before releasing the AKC registration papers. Breeders may now sell their puppies on the new AKC Limited Registration Certificate, which allows the dog AKC privileges of obedience activities but will not allow showing in the conformation ring or use for breeding purposes. These dogs make good companions and often their faults are not detectable to any but the most experienced eyes.

How much can I expect to pay for a Rottweiler puppy?

Show quality puppies will generally sell for $1,000 to $2,000, with pet prices approximately half the show price.

Fubrus
http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/rottweiler-faqs-115521.html

This post via: The Pet Vet Speaks Rottweiler Faqs

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1. Have the parents been shown? What type of shows? What titles have they earned (conformation, obedience, agility, field)? Are there pictures of the sire if he is not on the premises?

2. What is the temperament of the dam? Meet and interact with the dam. If she is shy and nervous or, worse, aggressive around people, her offspring have a greater chance of being the same way. Watch how the dam and puppies interact.

3. If other dogs are on the premises, are they friendly and outgoing or kept penned up out back because of aggression and bad behavior?

4. Which clearances do the parents and grandparents have? What about previous litters from these or related dogs? Necessary clearances vary between breeds, discuss them with your veterinarian before choosing a breed and breeder.

5. Have the dewclaws been removed? If not, why not? Remember, some breeds are required to have them to show.

6. What was the reason(s) for breeding this litter? Preferable for the breeder to want to improve the breed and keep one of the puppies for showing/hunting.

7. Have the puppies received a health exam from the veterinarian or when will they? Any health problems found? What type of treatment is needed for any health problems?

8. What type of guarantees do you have for the litter? If the hips are guaranteed, does it mean you get your money back but the breeder gets the puppy back (some medical conditions do not show up for 2 years)? Do you get another puppy from a future litter and how will you know that puppy will have any better hips?

9. What is the price? Show quality (conformation) puppies may be higher priced than the pet quality puppies. Who determined which are show quality?

10. Have the puppies been temperament tested? Has their desire to retrieve been tested? What were the results for the litter?

With few exceptions, no puppy should be seen, bought, and taken home on the same visit. The breeder and the prospective owner need time to judge each other. This may be done over the phone but the questions need to be asked to ensure a safe, loving home for each puppy. Impulse buyers rarely have thought through what a puppy needs over the next 12-15 years. People need to be aware of the time, energy, and expense bringing a living animal into a home requires.

Brent Goodman
http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/top-10-questions-to-ask-a-breeder-before-buying-a-dog-81400.html

This post via: The Pet Vet Speaks Top 10 Questions to Ask a Breeder Before Buying a Dog

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When a puppy comes into a new family besides love he requires dog supplies. Owners might not know a lot of things about what a dog needs in order to grow healthy and well.

There are a lot of dog stores with a lot of dog products exposed but sometimes it is difficult to decide from all those hundreds of dog products what dog supply to buy.

The term of dog supply refers to: dog beds, blankets, food, bowls and feeders, furniture, bones, cages, even books, and calendars with dogs.

The most essential dog supplies you will need are: a dog bed, a bowl, a collar, health products, a cage, a toy, maybe even dog clothes if you want your dog to look cool. It is indicated that you buy only the dog supplies that have been dog tested, to avoid any accidents and illnesses.

If you do not have time to go to a dog store and buy these dog supplies, you can access the internet and order from there the needed dog products.

You must be very attentive when buying any dog supply because some might not fit your dog. The dog bed must be on its size otherwise the poor pet might not rest as comfortably as you initially wanted to. The bowl must too match your dog size because some might not feed enough if they have a small bowl and might also make a mess around when eating.

Other dog supplies that must be chosen by your dog type are the food. Picking up the right food means: choosing the right food for the right age group: puppies, adult dogs or senior pets. Within the age group pick the right dog weight category; try different types of food for your dog to get a feel for what he likes and dislikes and offer your dog variety because no one likes eating the same things every day.

Bones are a dog’s favorite supply. A dog will always be happy when receiving a bone. This kind of treats must be carefully chosen because they can lead to the dog’s choking if they are too small.

Other requested dog supplies in dog stores are the dog houses. They are designed for the dogs that sleep outside the house. They will require a dog blanket too.

These dog supplies are regular ones and everybody affords them. Besides these, there exist other dog supplies which are more expensive and not every owner wants those products for its dog. Some of them are: dog clothes, boots, jackets and sweaters, and dog jewelry.

Also, if you have doubts on a dog supply you can always ask details about it at the shop you bought if from. The dog store’s personnel will gladly answer your questions about any dog supply.

If you are looking for a large variety of dog supplies fallow this links. At http://www.familypet.com you will find any dog supply that will make your beloved pets life happy.

Groshan Fabiola
http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/what-dog-supplies-do-i-need-for-my-new-pet-95750.html

This post via: The Pet Vet Speaks What Dog Supplies Do I Need for My New Pet?

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Many dog owners today try to be frugal on their dog’s medical care, Deciding if pet insurance is right for you and your dog can be difficult. Here is the question: can you afford an unexpected thousand dollars’ expense? Or even more? If not, then you should consider pet insurance.

Your dog’s medical care, including diagnostic tests and treatment options, is becoming more sophisticated. Treatments and procedures are now available that were not previously possible. With that comes a hefty price many dog owners cannot afford.

Veterinary costs alone can rival your own medical doctor’s fees. For example, a large breed dog with a relatively common life-threatening condition called “bloat” can be hospitalized and treated in many veterinary hospitals and emergency clinics across the country. The cost for this life-saving treatment ranges from $2,000 – $5,000 or more. A broken leg requiring fracture repair can range from $500 to $2500 depending on the specific treatment and where in the country you live.

Here are 3 more questions to help you determine if pet insurance is right for you…

1. Do you love your dog?

2. Do you want the best care for your dog?

3. Do you consider your dog as a valued member of your family?

If you answer is yes to these three questions, again, you should consider pet insurance. It will provide you with a peace of mind knowing you have help paying the medical costs for your dog’s accidents, poisonings, or illnesses including cancer.

As a veterinarian, I love to see dog owners with pet insurance. Dog owners with pet insurance that come to our emergency hospital don’t have to worry about compromising the care for their pets because of cost restraints. They don’t have to decline treatments or even consider euthanasia due to their limited budgets. If an unexpected expense would be difficult for your budget, then you should consider pet insurance.

Optional pet insurance coverage is also available as regular veterinary care such as vaccines and other routine wellness care is critical to the long-term health of your dog.

Your dog’s health & your finance’s bottom line:

There are many things in life that you can be frugal about, such as entertainment, travel and dining expenses. However, when it comes to your health, your family’s health or your dog’s health, you should never be frugal, especially if you love your dog and want the best care for him or her.

There will come a time when your dog needs medical attention. Here’s one final question: will you be ready?

Dr. Debra Primovic
http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/is-pet-insurance-right-for-you-and-your-dog-103573.html

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Your pet’s health is no doubt very important to you. You don’t want your dog or cat to be ill and just down-right sad. Of course not! That’s why you need to make sure your pets are in proper health. But not everyone knows how to identify a sick dog or cat – and that’s ok. Many people have pet health questions that they don’t have the answer to. Pets are not like humans. Their illnesses are unique to them and unfortunately, they can’t tell us exactly what hurts or doesn’t feel right. That’s why you need to look for signs that your pet might not be feeling just right.

Here are some signs to look for if you think your pet is under the weather.

Just not Him/Herself

One indicator of a sick pet is that he/she is not acting the way they usually do. Often lethargy (tiredness and/or fatigue) sets in when a pet is sick and your dog or cat may shy away rather than run up to greet you. Also if your pet isn’t as vibrant or energetic, it’s a good indication that something is not right. However, these signs won’t answer your pet health questions. They’ll just key you in to how your pet is feeling. When a pet is not acting his/herself, feel around his/her body and see how your pet reacts. If something is tender, your pet will definitely react with a “howl” or quick movement. That means a visit to the vet’s office is necessary.

Vomit/Diarrhea

Even though pets are not like us, there are some indications of poor health that are similar to ours, such as vomit and diarrhea. These are two clear signs that something’s not right with Fido or Mittens. This normally means that your pet has eaten something that has made him/her sick. In this case, it’s common to see your pet eat grass. The common belief is that grass helps remove the “bad stuff” from your pets system, acting sort of like a laxative, so you might see your pet eating grass prior to spotting vomit and/or diarrhea. Normally if they just ate something that doesn’t agree with them, the vomit and diarrhea will pass. However, if it persists, consult your veterinarian.

Fur Loss

We all know that our pets shed. We see the lumps of hair build all over the house that, at times, can be a bit annoying. However, if you notice large patches of missing hair, something is definitely not right. In some cases your pet might just be getting old and losing hair. However, this is not always the case. In some cases hair loss indicates skin irritations (scratching at itchy skin causing hair to be scratched away), cysts, ringworm, or an infection. Fur loss does raise a lot of pet health questions and since there could be a number of reasons, your best bet it to take your pet to the vet for some pet medications.

Discharge from Eyes and/or Nose

If there’s unusual “goop” around your dog or cat’s eyes or coming from their nose, you got a sick puppy/kitty. “Goop” normally indicates some sort of infection. If you notice such “goop”, clean your pet’s eyes/nose and see if it persists. If it does, there’s something up and it’s time to go see the vet.

Your pet’s health should just as important as yours and your family’s. The healthier your pet is, the longer he/she will be around to greet you when you come home from a hard day’s work.

In many cases, the solution to helping your pet feel better is through prescription pet meds. There are places online where you can get pet medications for less. Before you by those meds for your pet, see what generic and low cost alternatives are available to you online. The web is filled with discounted pet supplies.

Jim Waltman
http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/how-to-spot-a-sick-pet-89807.html

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If you own a pet then you’ll be bound to have many pet health questions. These can range from a simple, “how do I know if my dog is ill?” to a more complicated “what can I do for my molting spider?” All these pet health questions and more can be answered by your vet, or even the nice people down at the pet store.

Another good source for you to use to ask these vital pet health questions is the internet. Here you can find online vet websites which can help you in answering most of your pet health questions. You can ask any questions that you need to know the answer to and be assured of getting a reliable answer.

You can even find kindred spirits who have gone through the same things that you’re going through now, with their own pets. These people might have found different ways of dealing with the same problem you have now, or perhaps they could tell you how to enhance your present method so that it works better. Whatever the case you can be assured of at least some help from this vast resource, and it’s one of the best places to find information on your many pet health questions.

Then again if you don’t like new fangled things and would rather do things the old fashioned way you can always go down to your veterinary clinic and find some answers to your pet health questions that way. The staff should all be able to help you and you should be able to get sound answers to all your pet health questions.

Then again another resource that you have is the library. This also works very well in your favor but you will need to find the correct reference section before you get anywhere. The information that you can gather at the library is vast and although it might be time consuming, you can get most of your pet health questions answered.

This is also a good place where you can check out some books on pet health which you want to buy. Afterwards it will be a simple matter for you to go to the bookstore and buy your reference guide to your pet health questions and keep it handy in your home.

If you’re a conscientious pet owner then most of the time you will be having a few pet health questions. This is good as it shows that you care for your pet and only want the best for it. So ask as many questions as you like to be able to take care of your pets better.

Krishan Bakhru
http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/pet-health-quections-75451.html

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Besides, that's NOT how you examine a ferret! Unless you like being frustrated and possibly bitten. The proper way to examine a ferret is to hold them up by the scruff and then do your examination. They usually hold still and most will even yawn so that you can do a quick oral exam. For the less appreciated procedures (such as a rectal temp. or shots) a little bribe of food (like nutrical) on a tongue depressor often distracts them enough that they don't move….and watch the back end for urine and excrement as some ferrets don't fall for the bribe and will let it loose.

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