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3 Most Common Dog Allergies and Treatments

Allergies are just as irritating and cumbersome for dogs as they are for humans, and account for almost 25 percent of veterinary visits.  There are a variety of dog allergies, some more common than others, each with their own way of treating the symptoms and relieving the dog of the ailment.  Dog allergies normally start when the dog is between the ages of one and three, however, there are a few cases where dog allergies can start as late as six to eight years. Environmental Allergies The most common form of allergies that plague so many dogs is also the same most common allergy with humans - environmental allergies, or atopy.  From pollen and grass to dust mites and other airborne factors, environmental allergies can be seasonal or chronic.  Symptoms include itching, watery eyes, runny nose, sneezing, coughing, wheezing, and lesions on the skin, and can be mild to quite severe.  If you notice any of these symptoms, call ...

How to Prepare a Reptile Tank, Specifically a Bearded Dragon

If you've decided on a reptile for your next pet, there are a variety of things you will need in order to ensure he has the best setup, light and heat source, food, and housing.  Without knowing the proper way to set up the tank, your reptile could be missing out on things that are necessary to his survival.  This article will focus on the Bearded Dragon, a species that displays a hand-waving gesture to show submission.  They also have a head-bobbing action that shows dominance, mainly between other dragons. Bearded Dragons are a popular reptiles among children because they are typically friendly and calm, and are relatively easy to care for.  Growing between 16 and 24 inches, it is important to remember they will need a tank to fit their size. Here is what you will need to prepare the tank for your Bearded Dragon: 1. 25-75 gallon glass tank with tight fitting screen lid ...

Dog Park Etiquette; Brush Up on the Do’s and Don’ts

It has never been more important to brush up on the latest do's and don'ts when taking your furry friend to the dog park, as there are over 1,000 across the United States alone.  Time spent at the dog park can be one of the things your dog will look forward to the most, but it is your responsibility as the owner to make the most of the outing.  Dog parks not only provide the perfect place for them to run around and play, but they are a great place to socialize your dog, make new friends, and enjoy getting out of the house. Follow the Posted Rules The first thing you want to realize as good dog park etiquette is to follow any and all of the rules that are posted.  These rules are meant to keep everyone in line (including the owners!) and allow you and your dog to make ...

Cats Color Linked to Determining Personality

There has never been an easier way to determine which cat is best for you than simply picking it out by color.  Studies have shown that there is a link between the color of a cats coat and their underlying personality traits, which could help in choosing the best type for your household situation.  You may love white cats, but a gray colored one may be better suited to your needs.  Read on to see what colors lend to a certain personality. Black cats are often pre-determined to be mischievous and even bring bad luck, but that couldn't be further from the truth, no matter what suspicions you may hold.  Research suggests that cats with black fur are generally good-natured, loyal, and friendly, however stubborn is also a trait.  Studies conducted at the U.S. National Cancer Institute indicate that black fur may also be associated with health benefits including a resiliency to certain diseases.  ...

Dog Treats Recalled Due to Salmonella Risk

Merrick Pet Care Inc. of Amarillo, Texas, is recalling 248 cases of its Doggie Wishbone pet treats because the treats have the potential to be contaminated with salmonella.  Thankfully there is only one lot of the treats that are at risk for being affected, consisting of 248 cases.  The recalled product is the Doggie Wishbone pet treat, Item# 29050, UPC# 2280829050, Lot 11031, with a Best By date of 30 Jan 2013. The product was shipped to different distributors in 10 states including California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Kansas, Maryland, New York, Rhode Island, and Washington, which then shipped the products to retailers and other distributors throughout the U.S. The salmonella was discovered during a routine sampling according to Merrick Pet Care Inc, and at this point the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has not received any reports of dogs being affected or of any consumer complaints.  If you have purchased any Doggie Wishbone pet treats in ...

13-Year-Old Boy Invents Line of Dog Toys

Houston, TX - Leave it to a 13 year old boy to come up with a unique line of dog toys to prove he is a true entrepreneur.  Even better, he was only eight years old when he first came up with his idea!  The young man's name is Cole Amyx and he is most popular in his Houston neighborhood for making dog toys for his friends and neighbors pets in the community.  His signature invention involves the use of a tennis ball, a drill press, and other surprising elements. Not only is Cole showing his smarts at a young age, he is also exhibiting his cost conscience side.  "We were buying toys so I'm like, ‘Hey, we can make our own,'" Amyx said, and that's how it started.  He says the idea just came to him one day after having a conversation with his mom about how expensive pet toys can be. Cole has dubbed his invention the ...

Largest Gathering of Dogs and Cats to be in New York City

New York, NY - Come one come all, dogs and cats that is, to what will be the largest gathering of the two most popular household pets in New York City on November 19-20, 2011.  The American Kennel Club (AKC) will return to the Javits Center for the highly anticipated Meet the Breeds event.  This event will bring the unique opportunity to see, touch and play with thousands of dogs and cats, as well as see cats in costume and a recreated scene of the Wizard of Oz. A special feature of this fun loving event involves more than 210 dog and cat breed booths spanning out over 160,000 square feet where people of all ages can interact with and learn about the many types of breeds.  "From dreadlock-covered Komondor dogs to hairless Xolo puppies, AKC Meet the Breeds is a great opportunity for everyone to literally ‘meet’ and learn more about the vast range ...

5 Rare and Unique Dog Breeds; Hear of any of Them?

There are an astounding number of dog breeds out there, some recognized by the AKC, some bred for their cute looks, and others that fall into the most popular category like Golden Retrievers, Jack Russell Terriers, Bulldogs, or Labrador Retrievers.  In addition to all of the many you may be able to name off the top of your head, there are others that you've probably never heard of. Not all of these breeds are rare, but the Azawakh Hound is.  Originating in Africa, the Azawakh is distinguishable by its long legs, thin body, and very short coat of fur.  Ranging from 33-55 pounds, these dogs make avid hunting dogs, protectors, or companions, and they are exceptionally fast. The next breed of dog you've probably never heard of is the Beauceron, a French herding breed that is noted as one of the breeds used to create the Doberman Pinscher.  The Beauceron is a large and athletic, highly ...

10 Interesting and Fun Cat Facts

Cats are the second most popular pet behind dogs and have many interesting qualities that make them the unique pet they are.  Whether you are a cat lover or not, these fun facts and statistics are sure to enlighten and educate anyone interested in learning more about cats and their nature, their quirky ways, or the why's behind why they can make such great pets. 1. Why do cats purr? When cats purr, they are creating a consistent vibrational sound frequency of 25-150 Hz, which researchers have found aid in the healing of bones, tendons, ligaments and muscles, as well as providing pain relief.  It can also be to show contentment with the situation they are in. 2. Do cats like music? Most cats do in fact like a little music to brighten their day!  Research has found that they prefer fast beats to slow beats, and deep tones to high-pitched notes.  Many cats have also shown ...

Best Dog Breeds to Use for Service and Therapy

There are many qualities that people look for when choosing a dog to become useful as a service dog or a therapy dog.  Some breeds are better suited to the service lifestyle than others, making them top choices.  Therapy dogs are often found with their owners visiting patients in hospitals, hospice, nursing homes, or other places where their nature helps to comfort the patients.  Service dogs are typically sought after by police departments, fire departments, to be used as Seeing Eye dogs, among other services. Therapy Dogs When choosing a therapy dog, it is more important that their temperament is well suited to providing comfort rather than just choosing a breed.  Retrievers for example are known to be wonderful therapy dogs because of their naturally friendly character, they enjoy being petted, and they have an eagerness to please and comfort.  Retrievers are also great around children, making them top choice dogs to ...